Philippines’ Current Account Deficit Expected to Shrink in 2025 and 2026, Central Bank Forecasts

Philippines’ current account deficit to narrow in 2025, 2026, central bank says – Reuters

Philippines’ Economic Outlook Brightens as Central Bank Forecasts Shrinking Current Account Deficit

Optimistic Projections from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Trade and Economic Recovery

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has recently unveiled an encouraging forecast indicating a substantial reduction in the Philippines’ current account deficit by 2025 and continuing into 2026. This positive outlook, highlighted in recent Reuters reports, reflects ongoing government efforts to stabilize the economy amid global uncertainties and domestic hurdles. By implementing targeted policies aimed at enhancing export performance and attracting foreign capital, the country is poised for a healthier external balance.

As the nation recovers from pandemic-induced setbacks, key sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, and services are expected to drive this turnaround. The BSP’s projections underscore a renewed vigor in trade activities supported by rising global demand for Filipino goods.

Key Drivers Behind the Expected Improvement in Current Account Deficit

The anticipated narrowing of the current account deficit stems from multiple interrelated factors:

  • Export Expansion: Growing international appetite for Philippine products—especially in technology and agriculture—is set to boost foreign exchange earnings significantly.
  • Surge in Remittances: Overseas Filipino workers’ remittances are projected to rebound robustly, reinforcing household consumption and injecting vital liquidity into the economy.
  • Foreign Direct Investment Growth: Reforms easing foreign ownership restrictions alongside infrastructure improvements are expected to attract increased FDI inflows that support job creation and economic stability.
Indicator 2024 Forecast 2025 Forecast 2026 Forecast
% of GDP – Current Account Deficit 3.2% 2.5% 2.0%
% Export Growth 8.0% 10.5%

This data highlights a steady improvement trajectory with exports outpacing imports growth—a critical factor for reducing deficits sustainably.

Main Contributors to Strengthening External Balances in the Philippines

The convergence of enhanced export performance, revitalized remittance flows, and increased FDI forms a solid foundation for improving trade balances that directly impact current account figures positively.

< th >Impact th > tr >
< /thead > < td >< strong >Increase in Exports< / strong > td >< td >Elevates foreign currency reserves< / td > tr > < td >< strong >Remittance Recovery< / strong > td >< td >Supports consumer spending power< / td > tr > < td >< strong >FDI Influx< / strong > td >< td >Promotes economic resilience & employment growth< / td > tr >
Factor

Tactical Recommendations To Sustain Economic Momentum And Enhance Trade Surpluses

Aiming for long-term economic stability requires multifaceted strategies including: p >