The poor performance of Philippine agriculture exports is a sad narrative. Expanding exports are key to agricultural growth and diversification. Data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN) show that the Philippine record is dismal. In 2013, the Philippines exported only $6.1 billion. Compare this with Indonesia’s $38.9 billion, Thailand’s $37.9 billion, Malaysia’s $27.8 billion and Vietnam’s $17 billion. Data from other reliable sources (UN Trademap and World Trade Organization or WTO) reflect higher similar rankings in 2014.

Dy, R.T. (2016, May 2). Agri exports: scorecard of presidents. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. B2.