Volume of exports 9 percent up

In February, the volume of exports of goods grew by 9 percent compared to February 2006. Imports increased by 11 percent. The number of working days and public holidays did not affect international trade. Import prices rose by 1 percent on one year previously; export prices were approximately 0.5 percent higher.

In February, the growth of exports was almost equal to the average for 2006. At 8 percent, the increase in January’ was marginally smaller. Adjusted for price changes, the growth of imports was one percentage point higher than in 2006.

The value of exports of goods totalled 26.8 billion euro, an increase of over 9 percent on one year ago. The value of imports of goods totalled 23.9 billion euro, a 12 percent increase on February 2006. The resulting trade balance surplus of 2.9 billion euro is smaller than in February 2006.

The value of exports to non-EU countries was higher than one year previously. With respect to imports, the value of imports from EU countries was significantly higher than twelve months ago. January showed a similar pattern.

International trade in chemical products, manufactured goods, machinery and transport equipment rose markedly. Exports of mineral fuels and sundry manufactured goods (e.g. clothes, photographic, medical and measuring equipment) decreased.

The figures on February 2007 published in this update have been adjusted from those published on 13 April. The revision is based on new and more detailed information.

Exports of goods (volume)