In May 2017, exports and imports of goods recorded year-on-year nominal growth rates of +15.4% and +22.4% respectively (+0.1% and +11.4% in the same order, in April 2017). Excluding Fuels and lubricants, exports increased by 14.0% and imports grew by 19.2% (-2.6% and +6.8% respectively, in April 2017).
The deficit of trade balance reached EUR 1,438 million in May 2017, increasing by EUR 503 million when compared with May 2016. Excluding Fuels and lubricants, the trade balance stood at EUR -1,074 million, corresponding to an increase of EUR 344 million in the trade deficit compared with May 2016.
In the quarter ended in May 2017, exports and imports of goods increased by 13.2% and 16.5% respectively, vis-à-vis the quarter ended in May 2016.