Exports substantially higher again

After adjustment for working day effects the volume of goods exports in April 2006 was 8 percent higher than in April 2005. The growth rate was thus higher than in the first quarter of 2006 and higher than the average for 2005.

The volume of goods imports was 9 percent higher in April than twelve months previously. The volume increase was almost equal to the average growth in the first quarter of 2006 and significantly higher than the average for 2005.

The value of exports in April was 8 percent higher than in the same month last year, at 24.8 billion euro. The value of imports was 9 percent up on last year, at 22.0 billion euro. The trade surplus was 2.8 billion euro. Prices of imports and exports were about 5 percent higher than one year previously. April counted two working days fewer in 2006 than in 2005. The effect of this is also estimated at roughly 5 percent.

Just as in preceding months, the value of foreign trade with non-EU countries rose by more than that of trade with EU countries. Trade of mineral fuels showed the strongest increase of the various goods categories.

Export of goods (volume)