Philippine exports up 7 percent in May

The Philippine export earnings reached nearly 5.5 billion USD in May, a year-on-year rise of 6.9 percent, driven by strong performance of major commodity groups, according to news reports.
The Philippine export earnings reached nearly 5.5 billion USD in May, ayear-on-year rise of 6.9 percent, driven by strong performance of majorcommodity groups, according to news reports.

Thisbrought the five-month tally to 24.3 billion USD, up 6 percent on ayearly basis, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) was quoted assaying.

Mineral products posted the strongest rise of 107 percent year-on-year, followed by coconut oil, 45 percent.

Japan continues to top the list, accounting for a 20.4 percent sharein total exports. Merchandise shipment to the market was valued at 1.12billion USD, 6.1 percent higher than the previous year.

In aseparate statement, the National Economic and Development Authority(NEDA) said the outlook for the rest of the year is upbeat.

DeputyDirector General Emmanuel Esguerra was cited as saying that it isimportant for policies to remain supportive of higher exports growth.

Hesaid the capacities of exporters to improve product quality andpackaging in line with international standards and practices must beenhanced.

Meanwhile, President of the PhilippineExporters Confederation Inc. Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr said the group issticking to its 10 percent growth forecast for cargo exports thisyear.-VNA

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