Slight deterioration terms of trade

In May 2009, Dutch terms of trade of imported and exported goods deteriorated marginally relative to May 2008. Prices of imported and exported goods were 10.6 and 11.1 percent down respectively on one year previously. In March and April, terms of trade had marginally improved.

The decrease in import prices in May was partly caused by a slump in prices of petroleum and petroleum derivatives compared with one year previously. Lower export prices were mainly the result of lower prices for petroleum derivatives and natural gas.

More information on terms of trade can be found in the article Changes in the terms of trade in goods.

Changes in terms of trade