Growth rate exports remains high
In November 2010, the volume of goods exports was up by 8 percent on November 2009. Although growth was slightly less rapid than in October, the volume of exports reached about the highest level ever in both months. The volume of goods imports grew by 10 percent. Volume figures have been corrected for the number of working days.
According to the Exports Radar for January 2011, conditions for Dutch exports are slightly more favourable than one month previously.
The value of imports of goods grew by 22 percent on one year previously. The value of imports totalled 29.8 billion euro. The value of exports grew by nearly 21 percent to 33.6 billion euro. The trade surplus amounted 3.8 billion euro, an increase of 0.3 billion euro from November 2009.
The value of imports and exports of raw materials and mineral fuels was distinctly higher than twelve months previously. More manufactured goods were imported and exported. Imports of chemical products showed the smallest increase.
Exports to non-EU countries grew faster than exports to EU countries. However, the value of exports to EU countries is significantly higher than the value of exports to non-EU countries. The gap between EU and non-EU countries is less distinctive with respect to imports.
Export prices were 8.6 percent higher than twelve months previously. Import prices were 8.0 percent higher. As a result, terms of trade were slightly up on November 2009.