Good start for exports in 2008

In January, the volume of goods exports grew by 10 percent relative to January 2007. The volume of imports increased by almost 9 percent. Volume growth of both imports and exports was substantially above the average of the last quarter of 2007.

Import and export prices have gradually risen since September 2007, partly due to soaring prices for petroleum and petroleum products. In January, import and export prices had risen by 6 and 4 percent respectively compared to one year previously.

The value of exports was 30.9 billion euro, an increase by 14 percent relative to January 2007. The value of imports grew by 16 percent to reach 27.9 billion euro, resulting in a trade surplus of 3.0 billion euro. This is 0.1 billion euro higher than one year previously.

Imports from non-EU countries grew more than imports from EU countries. Exports to EU countries, on the other hand, increased more than exports to non-EU countries. Imports and exports of food, mineral fuels and chemical products rose considerably. This is partly caused by higher prices for these products.

Value and volume changes as published in this article have been adjusted for the effects of a trend break in the value figures.
The figures on January 2008 published in this update have been adjusted from those published on 18 March. The revision is based on new and more detailed information.

 Goods exports (volume)

Goods exports (volume)