Sustained exports growth

In May, the volume of goods exports was over 17 percent up on twelve months previously. The volume of exports has increased further in the first months of 2010. It should be taken into account that in the first six months of 2009 the volume of exports was still 11 to 15 percent down on 2008. In May 2010, the volume of exported goods was for the first time above the level prior to the financial crisis.

The volume of goods imports grew by more than 18 percent in May. The growth of the volume of exports was much more substantial than in the preceding months. The volume of imports was also slightly above the level of May 2008. Volume figures have been corrected for the number of working days.

According to the Exports Radar for July 2010, conditions for Dutch exports have improved compared with the previous month. After a long period of deterioration, the situation has improved gradually since May 2009.

The value of exported goods totalled 29.8 billion euro, i.e. 24 percent up on one year previously. The value of imports grew by 26 percent to 27.1 billion euro. In all categories of goods, the value of imports and exports was distinctly up on one year previously. The trade surplus amounted 2.7 billion euro, an increase by 0.2 billion euro relative to May 2009.

Exports to EU countries grew faster than exports to non-EU countries. Imports from non-EU countries, on the other hand, grew much faster than imports from EU countries.

Partly as a result of higher prices of petroleum derivatives, basic metals and chemical products, export prices were 8.6 percent higher than twelve months previously. Higher prices for petroleum, petroleum derivatives and basic metals, pushed up import prices by 9.0 percent. As a result, terms of trade were slightly down on May 2009.

Goods exports (volume)

More figures can be found on the theme page International trade.