Export value substantially higher

In August 2005 the value of the export of goods van goods was 14 percent higher than in August 2004, reaching 22.3 billion euro. Dutch imports in the same period increased by 12 percent to 20.3 billion euro. This brought the trade balance to 2.0 billion euro according to the latest preliminary figures by Statistics Netherlands.

Higher volume growth rate

After adjustment for price changes en working day effects, exports in August were up 8 percent on August 2004. The volume of imports of goods was up by 5 percent. Dutch export prices were 2 percent higher than in August 2004, while import prices were 3 percent higher. Furthermore August 2005 had one working day more than August 2004.

Trade with countries outside the EU increases faster

Dutch imports of goods from EU countries in August came to 10.4 billion euro, 5 percent more than in August 2004. Dutch imports from countries outside the European Union in August were up by 20 percent, reaching 9.9 billion euro. In June and July imports from non EU-countries grew faster. The high oil prices and their influence on the import of raw materials and mineral fuels, for instance from Russia, played a major role in this.

A comparable development was observed in exports. In August 2005 the exports to EU countries were up by 12 percent on the year before. They were valued at 16.9 billion euro. Exports to countries outside the European Union rose by 18 percent. They were valued at 5.4 billion euro.

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