With several agricultural products now excluded from the United States’ 19 percent tariff, the competitiveness of Philippine exports has been bolstered, and this is seen to help increase economic stability.
Included in the list of products exempted from the reciprocal tariff, as mentioned in U.S. President Donald Trump’s Executive Order issued on Nov. 14, 2025, are coconut-based products, tropical fruit juices, cocoa, bananas, oranges and spices, among others.
“The exemptions will provide much-needed relief to exporters, help safeguard jobs, and strengthen the competitiveness of Philippine products in one of our most important markets,” Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) President Consul Enunina Mangio said in a statement on Wednesday.
Citing government data, PCCI said some semiconductor items are also exempted from reciprocal tariffs, with exports estimated to be around USD2.5 to 3 billion annually.
The statement noted that “with the additional exemptions of agricultural products, a large portion of Philippine exports to the U.S. will now be exempted from reciprocal tariff.”
“The PCCI appreciates the US’s continued support and recognition of the Philippines’ trade leadership. This announcement underscores the strong partnership between our countries and reinforces opportunities for Filipino enterprises to expand,” Mangio added.
On Tuesday, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said agricultural items included in the latest U.S. tariff exemption account for around USD1 billion in terms of value of the country’s exports to the US in 2024. (PNA)