Overseas Merchandise Trade: September 2010

September 2010 quarter:

Values are seasonally adjusted and compared with the June 2010 quarter unless otherwise stated.

• Exports decreased 2.5 percent to $10.8 billion.
• Meat and edible offal products recorded the largest decrease in export values.
• Imports decreased 3.1 percent to $10.4 billion.
• The trade balance was a surplus of $378 million (3.5 percent of exports), the third consecutive quarterly trade surplus.

September 2010 month:

Values are actual and compared with the September 2009 month unless otherwise stated.

• Exports were up $335 million (12 percent) to $3.2 billion.
• Milk powder, butter, and cheese exports recorded the largest increase.
• Imports were up $306 million (9.1 percent) to $3.7 billion.
• Vehicles, parts, and accessories recorded the largest increase in import commodities.
• The trade balance was a deficit of $532 million (17 percent of exports).