Philippine international air cargo and mail volumes rose 16% year-on-year in Q1 2026, with international export cargo volumes up 23% — outpacing 10.4% growth in inbound shipments. The growth is tied to stronger electronics, apparel, and e-commerce fulfillment activity, with electronics remaining the country's top export category. The Department of Trade and Industry expects Philippine merchandise exports to hit a fresh record high this year.
Read more at Cargo NewswireFollowing a July 2025 agreement between President Trump and President Marcos, Philippine exports to the US now face a 19% reciprocal tariff (down from an earlier 20%), while US goods enter the Philippines duty-free. The Philippines holds the second-lowest tariff rate in ASEAN after Singapore, but the rate is still expected to disproportionately affect electronics, textiles, and food processing exporters — sectors already operating on tight margins.
Read more at ASEAN BriefingMajor carriers including Maersk and CMA CGM have resumed regular Red Sea/Suez Canal transits after more than two years of Cape of Good Hope rerouting following Houthi attacks. Asia-Europe and Asia-US freight rates, which had been running well above pre-crisis levels, are beginning to decline as capacity normalizes — a meaningful cost tailwind for Philippine importers and exporters relying on these trade lanes, though rates remain above 2023 levels.
Read more at Xeneta