Import and exports higher in October

The value of imported goods increased by 7 percent in October 2004, reaching a value of 20.3 billion euro. The value of exports was 8 percent higher than in October 2003, reaching 23.2 billion euro according to the latest preliminary figures by Statistics Netherlands.

The higher value of imports and exports can be explained in part by price increases. The developments in value were negatively influenced by the fact that October 2004 had two working days less than October 2003.

More trade with EU and non-EU countries

The Netherlands exported 18.2 billion euro worth of goods to EU countries in October 2004. This was 8 percent more than in October 2003. Dutch imports from these countries increased by 6 percent reaching 11.7 billion euro.

Dutch exports to countries outside the European Union were 7 percent higher in October 2004 than the year before, reaching 5.0 billion euro. Dutch imports of goods reached 8.6 billion euro in October, up 9 percent on the year before.

Greatest growth rate in trade in raw materials and mineral fuels

As was the case in previous months, the value of imports and exports of raw materials and mineral fuels increased most in October 2004. Price increases were a major cause. The year-on-year value increase of imported and exported chemical products was above average.

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