Source: CSO

Seasonally adjusted Irish merchandise exports fell by 2% in December, relative to November 2009 and imports also decreased by 5%. November 2009 exports  remained unchanged from October 2009 while imports increased by 8%. On an unadjusted basis, the value of exports in December 2009 fell by 11% from December 2008, while the value of imports was down 14%, according to the CSO. Total exports in 2009 were valued €83.5bn down from  €86.4bn -- a fall of 3.3%.

The value of exports in November 2009 was down 14% on November 2008 and the value of imports was down 17% and comparison of the Preliminary December 2009 to December 2008 data shows a decrease in Chemical exports to the USA. Machinery imports decreased from all destinations except from the USA.

The January-November figures for 2009 when compared with those of 2008 (see Tables 3-4) show that: Exports decreased from €79,636m to €77,533m (-3%) – Computer equipment decreased by 29%, Electrical machinery by 31%, Industrial machinery by 31% and Metalliferous ores by 43%.

Medical and pharmaceutical products increased by 18%, Organic chemicals by 6% and Other transport equipment (including aircraft) by 129%.

Goods to Great Britain decreased by 14%, Germany by 21%, France by 7%, Northern Ireland by 20% and the Philippines by 67%. Goods to Belgium increased by 22%, the United States by 9% and Brazil by 20%.

Imports decreased from €53,428m to €41,114m (-23%) – Computer equipment decreased by 46%, Road vehicles by 75%, Petroleum products by 36% and Iron and steel by 63%.

Other transport equipment (including aircraft) increased by 70% and Power generating machinery by 8%. Goods from Great Britain decreased by 31%, Germany by 38%, China by 32%, the Netherlands by 21% and Japan by 44%. Goods from the United States increased by 16%, Libya by 50% and Canada by 14%.