Modest growth for exports
The volume of exports of goods was 1.2 percent up in April 2014 from April 2013. In the first months of 2014, the foreign demand for natural gas was considerably lower than twelve months previously, due to the relatively mild weather conditions. This slowed down exports growth but in April, the effect of the weather conditions was less negative than in the preceding months. The volume of imported goods was 0.9 percent up in April 2014 from April 2013. In March, imports had grown by 3.5 percent compared to March 2013. Volume figures have been adjusted for the number of working days.
Manufacturing output up
Re-exports as well as exports of products manufactured in the Netherlands were higher in April 2014 than in April 2013. Statistics Netherlands announced earlier this month that manufacturing output was up from twelve months previously for the seventh month in a row. Dutch manufacturers were positive about their competitive position on the foreign market in the first quarter.
Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)
36 billion euros worth of goods exported
The value of exported goods totalled 35.9 billion euros in April, i.e. 1.6 percent up from one year previously. The value of imported goods increased by 1.0 percent in April to 31.6 billion euros. As a result, the trade surplus amounted to 4.3 billion euros (0.3 billion euros up from April 2013).
The trade value of imports and exports of mineral fuels dropped significantly relative to twelve months previously, but the trade value of manufactured products, machinery and transport equipment was substantially higher. The value of trade with EU-countries improved relative to April 2013, whereas the value of trade with non-EU countries remained fairly stable.
Lower import and export prices
In April, import and export prices were below the level of one year previously. Import and export prices declined by 1.8 percent.
Circumstances for Dutch exports in June the same as in May
According to June’s Export Radar, circumstances for Dutch exports remained stable relative to the preceding month. Circumstances for exports deteriorated marginally compared with March and April. This is mainly due to a slowdown in the growth rate of German manufacturing output and to the fact that Dutch manufacturers were less pleased with their foreign order positions. By means of six indicators, the Exports Radar shows whether circumstances for Dutch exports have become more or less favourable.
The figures published in this update have been adjusted relative to those published on 12 June 2014. The revision is based on more recent and detailed information. Monthly data on imports and exports of goods have not been adjusted to the revised National Accounts and Quarterly Accounts as yet.
More figures can be found on the theme page International Trade.
For more information on economic indicators, see the Economic Monitor.