Exports growth up

The volume of exports of goods increased by nearly 4 percent in February relative to twelve months previously. Dutch exports had grown by nearly 2 percent in January. The volume of imports grew by more than 7 percent in February. In January, imports had grown only marginally. Volume figures have been adjusted for the number of working days.

According the Exports Radar, circumstances for Dutch exports deteriorated marginally in April 2012, whereas they had still improved in March.

The value of exported goods totalled 36.0 billion euro, i.e. more than 11 percent up from one year previously. The value of imports grew by more than 16 percent to 33.1 billion euro, resulting in a 2.9 billion euro trade surplus, which is 1.0 billion euro below the February 2011 level. Value figures have not been adjusted for the effects of the number of working days. February 2012 had one working day more than February 2011.

The value of imports and exports of raw materials and mineral fuels grew substantially in February compared to twelve months previously. The petroleum price was higher, but the trade in mineral fuels also increased considerably.

Exports to non-EU countries grew somewhat faster than exports to EU countries. Imports from non-EU countries grew much faster than imports from EU countries.

Export and import prices were 3.9 and 3.4 percent up respectively from twelve months previously. As a result, terms of trade improved relative to February 2011.

Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)

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