Exports growth slightly up

The volume of exports of goods increased by nearly 6 percent in June from twelve months previously. This is marginally above the increase in May. The growth of the volume of exports has remained fairly stable over the past months. The volume of imports was nearly 4 percent higher in June. Volume figures have been adjusted for the number of working days.

According to August’s Exports Radar, circumstances for Dutch exports have worsened for the third consecutive month. 

The value of exported goods totalled 33.4 billion euro, i.e. nearly 4 percent up on one year previously. The value of imports grew by nearly 2 percent to 30.1 billion euro, resulting in a 3.3 billion euro trade surplus, which is 0.8 billion euro above the June 2010 level. Value figures have not been adjusted for the number of working days. June 2011 had two working days less than June 2010.

The value of imports and exports of raw materials and mineral fuels grew substantially. Higher oil prices played an important part in this respect. The value of imports and exports of chemical products and imports of machinery and transport equipment was down on June 2010.

Exports to EU countries increased while exports to non-EU countries decreased. For imports, it was the other way round. Imports from EU countries declined marginally whereas imports from non-EU countries grew.

Export and import prices were respectively 3.1 and 2.2 percent up on twelve months previously. As a result, terms of trade improved compared to June 2010.

Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)

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