substantial exports growth in October

The volume of exports of goods was 5.3 percent up in October 2014 from October 2013. In the preceding month, exports grew by 6.2 percent. Higher exports of Dutch products and higher re-exports contributed to the growth. According to Statistics Netherlands, Dutch companies most notably exported more transport vehicles, machinery and equipment than twelve months previously. The volume of imports was 4.5 percent up in October from twelve months previously. In September, imports grew by 4.4 percent.

Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)

Prominent growth in exports of transport equipment

Both exports of Dutch products and re-exports, i.e. exports of previously imported products, increased in October. Dutch companies exported considerably more transport vehicles, vessels, machinery and equipment than twelve months previously. Last Wednesday Statistics Netherlands announced that within the manufacturing industry, output grew by most in the transport equipment sector in October. Year-on-year growth was recorded for most export categories, with the exception of petroleum derivatives.

Situation for Dutch exports stable in December

According to Statistics Netherlands’ Exports Radar, circumstances for Dutch exports were fairly stable in December compared with November. According to the latest figures, the manufacturing industry in Germany recorded higher production levels. Producer confidence in Germany and in the eurozone was also slightly less negative. The real effective exchange rates on an annual basis, on the other hand, were less favourable than in the previous month. By means of six indicators, the Exports Radar shows whether circumstances for Dutch exports have become more or less favourable.

For more information on economic indicators, see the Economic Monitor.