The Philippines has solidified its position as a regional leader in trade modernization, ranking second in Southeast Asia in the 2025 United Nations Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation. With a score of 91.4%, the country has surpassed the 90% implementation threshold for the first time since the survey’s inception.
This marks a significant leap from its 86% score in 2023, reflecting the nation’s accelerated efforts to streamline trade processes, enhance transparency, and embrace digital transformation.
Key Highlights from the UN Survey
- 100% score in transparency and formalities
- 100% score in institutional arrangement and cooperation (up from 77.8%)
- 83.3% score in cross-border paperless trade (up from 66.7%)
- Major gains in:
- SME trade facilitation: 46.7% (up from 33.3%)
- Agricultural trade: 91.7% (up from 75%)
- Women in trade: 88.9% (up from 44.4%)
Reform-Driven Success
Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno credited the achievement to ongoing reforms aligned with the administration’s development agenda, including e-commerce digitalization and regional cooperation initiatives.
“This accomplishment highlights our increasing momentum in adopting efficient and sustainable trade practices,” Nepomuceno said.
The BOC’s participation in the ASEAN Single Window and the Framework Agreement on Facilitation of Cross-border Paperless Trade in Asia and the Pacific has been instrumental in driving these improvements.
Toward Inclusive and Green Trade
The 2025 survey also introduced forward-looking indicators on green trade and cross-border e-commerce, areas where the Philippines is expected to expand its leadership. As climate challenges intensify, aligning trade with environmental goals is becoming a strategic imperative.
🌐 Regional Rankings Snapshot
| Rank | Country | Score (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Singapore | 96.8 |
| 2 | Philippines | 91.4 |
| 3 | Malaysia | 90.3 |
| 4 | Indonesia | 89.2 |
| 5 | Thailand | 88.2 |
The Philippines’ continued rise in trade facilitation rankings signals its readiness to lead ASEAN in building a more digitally connected, inclusive, and resilient trade ecosystem. The BOC reaffirmed its commitment to pushing beyond global standards and ensuring ease of doing business for all stakeholders.
