The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is ramping up measures to help Philippine exporters navigate disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, including financial assistance, market diversification, and supply chain adjustments.
In a news release, DTI said it continues to closely monitor developments in the region amid concerns over shipping disruptions and possible impacts on trade flows, particularly for agricultural exports.
Some exporters have already reported declines in banana shipments to Middle Eastern markets due to maritime disruptions linked to the geopolitical tensions.
While Philippine exports remained resilient overall, the DTI said it is assessing risks that may affect specific sectors and export destinations.
“The DTI continues to closely monitor global developments that may affect trade and logistics, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. While exports have remained resilient, the Department is assessing and addressing potential risks that may impact specific sectors and markets,” the agency said.
To cushion the impact on exporters, the DTI said it is working with industry stakeholders on market diversification strategies and supply chain adjustments.
The agency is also providing exporters with market intelligence and information on alternative shipping routes and export destinations.
“DTI is working with industry stakeholders to help exporters navigate possible disruptions through market diversification and pivoting to domestic and other export markets, supply chain adjustments, and the provision of timely market intelligence on viable alternative routes,” it added.
The government is likewise rolling out financial support through the ₱3-billion Export Business Expansion Fund (EBEF), in coordination with the Small Business Corporation.
Under the program, affected micro, small, and medium enterprises may secure loans of up to ₱20 million, payable for up to five years with a one-year grace period.
The DTI said the fund is intended to help exporters expand operations, increase production capacity, modernize facilities, and remain globally competitive despite external shocks.
“Under the EBEF, loans of up to ₱20 million may be secured and repaid for up to 5 years, with one year grace period, to secure export markets through business expansion, increasing production capacity and modernization activities to scale up and strengthen their competitiveness and compete globally,” the DTI said.
The government’s intervention comes as exporters face increasing uncertainty from geopolitical tensions affecting maritime trade routes, fuel costs, logistics, and regional demand patterns across the Middle East.