Exports marginally lower

The volume of exports of goods was 0.4 percent down in January 2014 from January 2013. In December last year, the volume of exports grew by a modest 0.5 percent. The volume of imports grew by 0.3 percent in January, after a 1.7 percent growth in December. Volume figures have been adjusted for the number of working days.

The value of exported goods totalled 35.7 billion euros, i.e. 2.1 percent down from one year previously. The value of imported goods fell by 2.0 percent to 31.8 billion euros, resulting in a trade surplus of 3.9 billion euros.

The trade value of imports and exports of raw materials and mineral fuels dropped significantly.
Exports to non-EU countries declined substantially relative one year previously. The trade value of exports to EU countries was slightly lower than in January 2013.

In January, import and export prices were below the level of one year previously. Export prices fell by 1.8 percent, import prices by 2.3 percent. As a result, terms of trade improved somewhat compared to January 2013.

By means of six indicators, the Exports Radar shows whether circumstances for Dutch exports have become more or less favourable. According to March’s Export Radar, circumstances for Dutch exports improved marginally compared to the preceding month.

Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)