Philippines: Merchandise exports gain steam in November
Merchandise exports jumped 6.6% on an annual basis in November, on the heels of October’s 2.0% increase. Meanwhile, merchandise imports climbed 36.8% in annual terms in November (October: +25.1% yoy), marking the best result since June 2021.
As a result, the merchandise trade balance deteriorated from the previous month, recording a USD 4.7 billion shortfall in November (October 2021: USD 4.0 billion deficit; November 2020: USD 2.1 billion deficit). Lastly, the trend deteriorated, with the 12-month trailing merchandise trade balance recording a USD 40.4 billion deficit in November, compared to the USD 37.8 billion deficit in October.