The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is stepping up efforts to transform the Philippine coconut industry into a stronger source of high-value products, following a 34.4% increase in coconut exports to $3.6 billion in 2025.

The sector accounted for nearly half of the country’s total agro-based exports last year, contributing significantly to the Philippines’ record $84.48 billion in total export revenues. More importantly, the industry remains a major source of livelihood for approximately 2.8 million Filipino coconut farmers.

Speaking at the opening of the DTI–Bagong Pilipinas COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair on August 26, DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque emphasized the need to move beyond raw agricultural products and develop competitive, high-value goods that can create sustainable income for farmers and local communities.

“The value of our coconut industry lies not only in what we harvest, but in what we create from it,” Roque said.

To expand opportunities for local enterprises, the DTI is connecting coconut businesses with international buyers through export promotion programs, business matching, outbound trade missions, and the Philippine Trade and Investment Centers (PTICs).

The trade fair brought together 300 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) seeking new product development opportunities, market connections, and commercial partnerships. These efforts complement government initiatives such as the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP).

Philippine coconut exporters are also positioned to benefit from the country’s expanding network of free trade agreements, including the recently concluded Philippines–Chile FTA negotiations and ongoing discussions with the European Union and Canada.

As global demand for Philippine agricultural products continues to grow, the DTI aims to turn the country’s coconut sector into more opportunities for Filipino businesses, farmers, and communities.

Categories: Business, Agriculture, Economy, MSMEs, Philippines

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