Exports marginally lower

In September 2013, the volume of exports of goods was 0.5 percent down from September 2012. In the preceding three months, exports growth was about 2 percent. The volume of imports grew by 1.2 percent in September. In August, this volume shrank by 1.6 percent. Volume figures have been adjusted for the number of working days.

The value of exported goods totalled 35.1 billion euros, almost equalling the level in September 2012. The value of imported goods increased by 1.0 percent to 31.7 billion euros. The trade surplus amounted to 3.4 billion euros, a decrease of 0.3 billion euros compared to September 2012. Value figures have not been adjusted for calendar effects. September 2013 had one working day more than September 2012.

Just as in the preceding six months, import and export prices were below the level of one year previously: 2.9 and 2.0 percent lower respectively. As a result, the terms of trade improved from September 2012.

According to November’s Exports Radar circumstances for Dutch exports were considerably more favourable than in October.

Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)