In March 2017, exports and imports of goods recorded year-on-year nominal growth rates of +23.9% and +14.6% respectively (+8.5% and +9.5% in the same order, in February 2017). Excluding Fuels and lubricants, exports increased by 21.1% and imports grew by 14.6% (+5.0% and +4.6% respectively, in February 2017). The acceleration in exports and imports partially reflected calendar effects.
The deficit of trade balance reached EUR 821 million in March 2017, decreasing by EUR 241 million when compared with March 2016. Excluding Fuels and lubricants, the trade balance stood at EUR -602 million, corresponding to a reduction of EUR 154 million in the trade deficit compared to March 2016.
In the first quarter 2017, exports and imports of goods increased by 17.1% and 15.3% respectively, vis-à-vis the first quarter 2016.