The Philippines earned $3.06 million from ube and ube-based product exports in 2025, driven by rising global demand for authentic Asian flavors, natural food colorants, and versatile food ingredients, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.
In a news release dated Feb. 20, the DTI reported that purple yam — long a staple in Filipino desserts — has steadily evolved into a premium export ingredient in high-value markets such as the Middle East, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy.
Preliminary data show sustained growth in processed ube products, including powder, puree, halaya, and flavor extracts. Industry monitoring also points to strong interest from foreign manufacturers incorporating ube into ice cream, baked goods, confectionery, specialty beverages, and ready-to-eat desserts.
Global product development trends reflect the crop’s expanding footprint. According to Mintel’s Global New Products Database (GNPD), 359 new products featuring ube were launched worldwide across various markets.
While the Philippines accounts for the largest share of these launches — mainly in cakes, pastries, sweet goods, and dairy-based products such as ice cream and frozen yogurt — innovation is gaining momentum abroad.
Japan, China, and the United States have emerged as key innovation hubs. In Japan, ube is featured in chilled and shelf-stable desserts; in China, in cakes, pastries, malt and hot beverages; and in the United States, in dairy-based ice cream, frozen yogurt, sweet biscuits, and cookies.
DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque said the growing international adoption of ube underscores the Philippines’ ability to elevate a traditional crop into a competitive, value-added export.
“Behind every ube product enjoyed overseas are Filipino farmers and MSMEs whose dedication sustains their families and rural communities. That is why we continue to strengthen support for the sector by improving quality standards and reinforcing supply chains, so Philippine ube can compete confidently and sustainably in international markets,” Roque said.
The DTI, through its Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), provides trade promotion assistance, market intelligence, and capacity-building programs to help exporters access and expand in global markets.
Exporters seeking information on requirements and trade promotion programs may contact the DTI-Export Marketing Bureau at exports@dti.gov.ph.