Exports up again

The volume of exports of goods was 2.4 percent up in June 2014 from June 2013, after a 3.1 percent drop in May. The volume of imported goods was 2.3 percent down from twelve months previously. The volume of imports had fallen in May, but to a lesser extent (0.7 percent). Volume figures have been adjusted for the number of working days.

Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)

Exports of goods (volume adjusted for working days)

More than 36 billion euros worth of goods exported

The value of exported goods totalled 36.3 billion euros in June, i.e. 2.0 percent up from one year previously. The value of imported goods fell by 2.2 percent to 31.5 billion euros, resulting in a trade surplus of 4.8 billion euros (1.4 billion euros up from June 2013).

The export value of manufactured products, machinery and transport equipment was substantially higher in June than twelve months previously. The value of exports to countries outside the EU grew rapidly, but the value of exports to EU-countries grew modestly.

Lower import and export prices

Import prices and export prices were respectively 0.7 and 0.8 percent down in June 2014 from June 2013. As a result, terms of trade deteriorated somewhat relative to June 2013.

Circumstances for Dutch exports more favourable in August than in July

According to Statistics Netherlands Export Radar, circumstances for Dutch exports were more favourable in August than in July. All sentiment indicators improved, manufacturing industry in Germany performed less well  than in the preceding month. By means of six indicators, the Exports Radar shows whether circumstances for Dutch exports have become more or less favourable.

The monthly figures on international trade in goods have as yet not been adjusted to the new concepts and definitions of the National Accounts. The transition is planned for mid-September.

More figures can be found on the theme page International Trade.

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