Exports marginally down

In October 2013, the volume of exports of goods was 0.4 percent down from twelve months previously. In September, the volume of exports had shrunk by 0.8 percent. The volume of imports fell by 0.2 percent in October, after a 1.5 percent growth in September. Volume figures have been adjusted for the number of working days.

The value of exported goods totalled 37.5 billion euros, i.e. 3.1 percent down from one year previously. The value of imported goods fell by 3.2 percent to 33.8 billion euros, resulting in a trade surplus of 3.8 billion euros.

Just as in the preceding seven months, import and export prices were below the level of one year previously. Export and import prices fell by 2.7 and 3.0 percent respectively. As a result, terms of trade improved somewhat compared to October 2012.

According to December’s Exports Radar, circumstances for Dutch exports were slightly more favourable than in the preceding month.

Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)