Modest exports growth

In July 2013, the volume of exports of goods was 1.1 percent up from July 2012. The growth is in the same order of magnitude as in May and June. The volume of imports decreased by 1.4 percent in July. In June imports still rose by 1.2 percent. Volume figures have been  adjusted for the number of working days.

The value of exported goods totalled 35.5 billion euros, i.e. a 2.6 percent increase from twelve months previously. The value of imported goods decreased by 0.3 percent to 32.1 billion euros, resulting in a trade surplus of 3.4 billion euros, an increase of 1.0 billion euros compared to July 2012. Value figures have not been adjusted for calendar effects. July had one working day more in 2013 than in 2012.

The value of imports and exports of food and beverages was considerably higher than twelve months previously, but the trade value of chemical products was lower. The value of imports from non-EU countries fell substantially, but the value of exports to non-EU countries grew.

Import and export prices were down from one year previously; they fell by 1.6 and 1.2 percent respectively. As a result, terms of trade improved somewhat relative to July 2012.

According to September’s Exports Radar, improvements and deteriorations almost balanced each other out. Circumstances for Dutch exports still improved in August. Over the preceding months, they had remained fairly stable.

 Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)