Robust growth exports

The volume of exports of goods increased by nearly 6 percent in December relative to twelve months previously. In November, export growth came to a halt after negative growth in October. The volume of imports grew by nearly 5 percent in December. Volume figures have been adjusted for the number of working days. December 2011 had two working days less than December 2010.

February’s Exports Radar shows some improvements and one deterioration. January’s Exports Radar also showed a mixed picture. In the latter half of 2011, circumstances for Dutch exports had obviously deteriorated.

The value of exported goods totalled 34.5 billion euro, i.e. 3 percent up from one year previously. The value of imports grew by nearly 2 percent to 30.2 billion euro, resulting in a 4.3 billion euro trade surplus, which is 0.5 billion euro above the December 2010 level. The value figures have not been adjusted for the effects of the number of working days.

Only the value of imports and exports of raw materials and mineral fuels grew substantially in December compared to twelve months previously. Higher oil prices played an important part in this respect.

Exports to non-EU countries performed better than exports to EU countries. For imports, it was just the other way around.

Export and import prices were respectively 2.6 and 1.9 percent up from twelve months previously. As a result, terms of trade improved relative to December 2010.

Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)

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