Substantial exports growth

The volume of exports of goods increased by 8.5 percent in May relative to twelve months previously. The growth rates of Dutch exports in April and March were over  4 and over 2 percent respectively. The volume of imports grew by nearly 7 percent in May, just as in April. The substantial growth of imports and exports was mainly due to an increased trade in mineral fuels. Volume figures have been adjusted for the number of working days.

July’s Exports Radar mainly shows downturns. In the previous months, circumstances for Dutch exports had also deteriorated.

The value of exported goods totalled 37.0 billion euro, i.e. more than 7 percent up from one year previously. The value of imports grew by 7 percent to 33.1 billion euro, resulting in a trade surplus of 3.9 billion euro, which is 0.3 billion euro above the May 2011 level. These figures have not been adjusted for the effects of the number of working days. May 2012 had one working day less than May 2011.

The value of imports and exports of raw materials and mineral fuels grew substantially in May compared to twelve months previously. Mineral fuel prices were higher, but the trade in mineral fuels was also considerably more dynamic.

Just as in the preceding months, the value of exports to non-EU countries grew much faster than the value of exports to EU countries.

Export and import prices were respectively 1.7 and 1.6 percent higher than in May 2011. As a result, terms of trade improved marginally relative to May 2011.

Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)

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