Brazil Exports, Imports & Trade

In 2010, Brazil total trade volume was US$387.4 billion. Brazil is a member of numerous economic organizations, including Unasul, WTO, Mercosul, G-20 and the Cairns Group. Brazil has hundreds of trading partners, with 60 percent of its total exports made up of manufactured and semi manufactured goods.

Mercosul, an economic and political agreement that includes Argentina, Paraguay, Uraguay and Brazil, promotes free trade and easy transit of goods, people and currency. In 2008, Mercosul signed a free trade agreement with Israel, and later signed with Egypt in 2010.

Brazil is also one of the leading players in the World Trade Organization's Doha Development Round negotiations for discussion on lowering trade barriers around to world to boost global trade. However, discussions has been stalled due to differences between EU, US, Japan and other developing countries, including Brazil.

As Brazil's economy expects to expand in the next 5 years, experts says that the appreciation of the real will impede the increasing demand of Brazil's exports, thus reducing Brazil's total exports. A strong real may also increases demand for imports of foreign goods, thus resulting to a trade deficit and widening of Brazil's current account deficit.
Brazil's Import and Export Indicators and Statistics at a Glance (2010)

Total value of exports: US$199.7 billion

Primary exports - commodities: transport equipment, iron ore, soybeans, footwear, coffee, automotiv

Primary exports partners: China (12.49 percent of total exports), US (10.5 percent), Argentina (8.4 percent), Netherlands (5.39 percent), Germany (4.05 percent)

Total value of imports: US$187.7 billion

Primary imports - commodities: machinery, electrical and transport equipment, chemical products, oil, automotive parts, electronics

Primary imports partners: US (16.12 percent of total imports), China (12.61 percent), Argentina (8.77 percent), Germany (7.65 percent), Japan (4.3 percent)

Dubai Trade, Exports and Imports

According to industry experts, Dubai’s growth is continuing steadily in 2010 and is expected to expand further in 2011. In 2009, the export destinations increased to 163, as per the annul report of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The export of locally processed sugar stood at approximately Dh1.4 billion in 2008. Some other major food product exports included dates, figs and mangoes, worth Dh285 million.

The non-oil exports of the emirate rose by 23% in 2009, in comparison to the 2008 levels. The goods worth AED42.6 billion were exported by Dubai in 2008, whereas it exported goods worth AED52.4 billion in 2009 (Dh186.1 billion, including re-exports). However, according to the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, total exports plummeted by 16% in 2009. The major re-exporting destinations of Dubai are:

    *      Iran (US$ 790 million)
    *      India (US$ 204 million)
    *      Saudi Arabia (US$ 194 million)

Dubai Imports: Data

Over two-thirds of the import items to the UAE are directed to Dubai. Major import commodities of Dubai are capital, consumables, cement, food products and intermediate products. The leading import sources of Dubai as of 2008 were:

    *      Japan (US$ 1.5 billion)
    *      China (US$ 1.4 billion)
    *      The United States (US$ 1.4 billion)

According to Bu Amim, in 2009, Dubai recorded a 12% increase in the import of fruit and vegetables. In 2007, Dubai exported 2.96 million tons of cement to support is booming construction industry. Dubai imported 300 tons of gold in 2008 and by Q12009 its gold trade reached $14.69 billion.

Egypt Trade, Exports and Imports

Egypt’s trade profile is characterized by huge trade deficits. The economy is highly dependent on oil exports, which is its major source of foreign income together with tourism receipts and US financial and military aid. It has to import most of its food, other commodities and equipment, since both its agricultural and industrial sectors are not well-developed.

Since the 1990s, the government has pioneered several economic reforms through foreign donor aid. However, measurable benefits of these economic reforms are yet to be seen.
Egypt Trade: Exports

Egypt’s 2010 exports trade grossed over US$29 billion, a 22% surge from the previous year’s level.

Oil export is central to the Egyptian economy. Egypt produces 630,600 barrels of oil a day, and  exports 155,200 barrels per day, approximately. However, the country has huge oil reserves, 37 billion barrels proven and potentially more in uncharted areas, which can act as fuel for the economy for coming decades.

Apart from crude oil and petroleum products, the country also exports metal products, cotton, textiles and chemicals. Before World War II, cotton made up 90% of Egypt's exports, while cotton textiles had grown to 16% of exports by 1970. By 1985, however, oil had come to dominate trade, making up around 80% of exports.

EU and the US are the biggest exporting markets for Egyptian oil and other products. Italy has the largest share of the Egyptian export pie, accounting for 9.4% of the total volume. It is followed by the US (7.1%), India (6.2%), Spain (6.1%),  Syria (5.5%), Saudia Arabia (4.6%), Japan (4.5%) and Germany (4.5%).

Egypt Trade: Imports

Egypt import volumes reached US$43.98 billion in 2009, a 24% rise from the previous year’s level.

Due to surplus imports, Egypt has had a negative balance of trade since the 1980s. Based on total import volumes, the country ranks 49th in the world.

Food, commodities, equipment and wood products are the major items of import.

The US is the largest import partner. It accounts for more than 10% of the total imports, followed by China (9.9%), Italy (7.3%), Germany (6.8%) and Saudi Arabia (4.9%).

Previously, Egypt used to be a strong trade ally of the communist bloc. Since the 1979 Camp David peace agreement with Israel, Egypt has become a staunch US ally, from whom it receives massive financial and military subsidies. It has gradually shifted trade partnerships to the western world, and enjoyed strong (but uneven) economic growth as a result. Egypt has signed several international trade agreements with partnering countries that govern the country’s international trade.

Iraq Trade, Exports and Imports

Iraq is a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), an international trade organization. Subsequent to its invasion of Kuwait, the country was barred from exporting anything but oil, from 1990 to 2003. This was done by the United Nations (UN) under the Oil-for-Food program. Iraq was allowed to use the proceeds for importing materials of civilian needs, including food, medicine, and infrastructure-repair parts. The export of oil accounted for US$7.4 billion of the total exports in 2003.

 Since the lifting of the UN sanctions in 2003, Iraq has been attempting to further trade relations with the US and the international trade community. During this period, Iraq made enormous imports including food, fuels, medicines, and manufactured goods. In 2004, the nation was given the designation of abeneficiary developing country by the UN under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program. In 2007 and 2008, Iraq participated in the two Working Party meetings to promote its WTO accession. This was required to bring its trade regime at par with the multilateral international trade system. The total exports of Iraq dropped to $37.89 billion in 2009 from the previous year’s $58.81 billion. Oils exports in 2009 amounted to 1.9 million bbl/day in 2008. The total imports of Iraq in 2009 also decreased to $35.77 billion, as compared to $37.22 billion in year 2008.


Iraq Trade: Exchange Rates

Iraq Exports: Commodities

Some main export products of Iraq are:

    *      Crude oil 84%
    *      Crude materials excluding fuels 8%
    *      Food and live animals 5%

Iraq Exports: Partners

The major export partners of Iraq (as of 2008) are as follows:

     *      South Korea 7.1%
    *      India 12.2%
    *      Italy 9.8%
    *      US 38.6%
    

Iraq Imports: Commodities

Some of the main import products of Iraq are:

    *      Food
    *      Medicine
    *      Manufactures

Iraq Imports: Partners

The major import partners of Iraq (as of 2008) are as follows:


    *      China 6%
    *      Jordan 6.4%
    *      US 10.6%
    *      Turkey 19.6%
    *      Syria 26.2%

Nigeria Trade, Exports and Imports

Nigeria's trade relations revolve around the oil and natural gas sectors. After the economic reforms of 2005, the government is making efforts to diversify its export profile beyond the oil sector, such as minerals and agricultural products.
Nigeria Trade: Exports

Oil and natural gas are the most important export products for Nigerian trade. The country exports approximately 2.327 million barrels per day, according to the 2007 figures. In terms of total oil exports, Nigeria ranks 8th in the world. As of 2009, Nigeria has approximately 36.2 billion barrel oil reserves. Despite large scale liberalization efforts, this sector is under close check of the government agencies. Nigerian National Oil Corporation (NNOC) is the regulatory body for the oil and natural gas sector.



Prior to oil production, which surged after the 1970s, agricultural production was the largest export sector for Nigeria. After the country became a largely oil-intensive economy, the agriculture sector took a back seat. However, it still provides employment to almost 70% of the total working population.



According to the 2009 figures, the country’s total export volumes stand at US$45.43 billion. Major items of export are oil products, cocoa and timber. The UK and the US are the largest trade partners for Nigerian exports.

Nigeria Trade: Imports

Due to high international oil prices, Nigeria’s import trade is able to balance export revenue. According to the 2009 figures, the country's imports grossed over US$42.1 billion. Machinery, heavy equipments, consumer goods and food products are the major imports. A large portion of the imports arrive from the EU, particularly the Netherlands, the UK, France and Germany. China, the US and South Korea are also major import trade partners.

After 2005, Nigeria has fostered trade relations with emerging economies, such as India, China and South Korea. After the US, India is the second largest exporter of Nigerian oil.

South Africa Trade, Exports and Imports

 South Africa’s trade, exports and imports are heavily dependent on the nation’s natural resources and the government’s highly liberal trade incentives. South Africa recorded a trade surplus of R3.7 billion in December 2009, according to the South African Revenue Service (SARS). The surplus resulted from a decrease in imports of 13.73% and a decrease in exports of 1.08%. In December, exports amounted to R45.36 billion and imports amounted to R41.69 billion resulting in a surplus of R3.67 billion. The cumulative trade deficit for 2009 was R25.84 billion. Compared to a deficit of R71.63 in 2008, this represents a decline of R45.79 billion or 64%.
South Africa Trade: Exports

South Africa’s primary export commodities include gold, diamonds, platinum, other metals and minerals, machinery and equipment. South Africa’s exports were worth $67.93 billion in 2009, down from $86.12 billion in 2008. The following chart shows the distribution of South Africa’s export partners. All data are in percentages.

South Africa: Imports

South Africa’s primary import commodities include machinery and equipment, chemicals, petroleum products, scientific instruments, and food materials. South Africa’s imports were worth $70.24 billion in 2009, down from $90.57 billion in 2008. The following chart shows the distribution of South Africa’s import partners. All data are in percentages.

South Africa Trade: Exchange Rates

Africa Trade, Exports and Imports

The Africa trade is dominated by diverse natural resources that the continent enjoys in abundance. However, trade varies from one country to another. Countries such as South Africa represent the higher side of the spectrum whereas regions such as Burundi have the least trade volumes. A majority of African countries are underdeveloped and therefore, rely heavily on foreign aids to survive. Africa trade is, therefore, a representation of extremes.

The Africa trade is dominated by diverse natural resources that the continent enjoys in abundance. However, trade varies from one country to another. Countries such as South Africa represent the higher side of the spectrum whereas regions such as Burundi have the least trade volumes. A majority of African countries are underdeveloped and therefore, rely heavily on foreign aids to survive. Africa trade is, therefore, a representation of extremes.
Africa Trade: Exports

Botswana and South Africa are two biggest exporting countries in Africa. South Africa is the world’s biggest producer of gold as well as diamonds. The country has a well developed law system. South Africa has a large pool of skilled labour and, advanced infrastructure and developed financial resources. All these factors are mostly missing from other countries.

The main exported commodities of African nations are:

    *      Palm oil
    *      Gold and diamonds
    *      Oil
    *      Cocoa
    *      Timber
    *      Precious metals

Oil export has been the main stay for many economies. Nigeria is one of the world's largest oil reserves and Africa's largest oil producer. With its resources, Nigeria can produce 3.2 million barrels/day. However it only produces an average of 2.21 million barrels/day. .

In the last two decades, countries such as Sudan, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea have also benefited due to their oil exports.
Africa Trade: Imports

Africa struggles with food items and basic facilities. It is often under the grip of internal outbreaks, leaving less scope for infrastructural or administrative change over. Therefore, African imports feature medical supplies as well as food items.

The main imported commodities are:

    *      Machinery and equipment
    *      Chemicals
    *      Petroleum products
    *      Scientific instruments
    *      Foodstuffs

Machinery and equipments imports have become a regular as the region is trying to uplift its productivity and make use of the vast resources.

However, the imports are limited to nations that have a decent level of consumption. Otherwise, Africa has regions such as sub Saharan regions where people still live under 70 cents a day.

Overall, Africa trade has been helped enormously by other such as Germany, Japan and China that have not only invested a lot in the emerging countries but have been regular African trade partners as well.

Italy Trade, Exports and Imports

Italian trade is dominated by automobiles and machinery. The country is challenged by mountainous terrain where cultivation of agriculture isn't possible. For the same reason, Italian trade depends on the manufacturing sector.

Around the world, Italy’s famous brands such as Armani, Valentino, Versace, Benetton, Prada, FIAT, Lancia, Alfa Romeo, Maserati and Lamborghini have created a niche in the global marketplace where there is a demand for high quality and superior goods.

Italy Trade: Exports

The 2008 recession decreased Italy's global trade volumes significantly. Its export volumes decreased from $546.9 billion in 2008 to $369 billion in 2010. However, the country's economy remained relatively strong and ranked 8^th in the world for export volumes.
The main exported commodities include:

• Engineering products
  
• Textiles and clothing
  
• Production machinery
  
• Motor vehicles
  
• Transport equipment
  
• Chemicals
  
• Food
  
• Beverages and tobacco
  
• Minerals and nonferrous metals
  

Italy’s main export partners are:

• Germany
  
• France
  
• Spain
  
• US
  
• UK
  

Italy Trade: Imports

Italy's imports dipped as well following the 2008 recession. The figures dropped from $546.9 billion in 2008 to $358.7 billion in 2010.
Italy imports the following commodities:

• Engineering products
  
• Chemicals
  
• Transport equipment
  
• Energy products
  
• Minerals and nonferrous metals
  
• Textiles and clothing
  
• Food and Beverages
  
• Tobacco
  

Italy’s main imports partners are:

• Germany
  
• France
  
• China
  
• Netherlands
  
• Libya
  
• Russia
  

Italy Trade: Energy Export

Italy has a high volume of energy production in its industry sector. Italy exports 3.431 billion kWh of electricity and 667,100 bbl/day of oil and 210 million cu m of natural gas.  Through increased energy production, Italy’s trade balance has come down from $78.03 billion in 2008 to $55.44 billion in 2010.

Ireland Trade, Ireland Exports, Ireland Imports

Helped by trade and attractive policies, Ireland’s economy has made the intelligent transition from an agriculture based economy to a more trade based one. Although Ireland’s trade, especially the export sector, remains dominated by foreign multinationals, exports contribute significantly to the national income.

Ireland Trade: Exports

Ireland’s trade has been the reason for the nation’s prosperity. Although the recession devalued the sterling and forced the government to implement various strategies, foreign companies, such as Apple, Microsoft, IBM, Oracle, Google, eBay, Pfizer, Cadbury-Schweppes, Dell and Intel, have kept the exports alive through their wide range of products.
In 2009, the Irish export volume went down to $107.3 billion, from $119.8 billion in 2008. The main exported commodities were:

• Machinery and equipment
  
• Computers
  
• Chemicals
  
• Pharmaceuticals
  
• Live animals
  
• Animal products 
  

Ireland’s exports partners include 

• US
  
• UK
  
• Belgium
  
• Germany
  
• France
  
• Spain
  

Ireland imports a huge amount of wood because its own timber industry has subsided due to deforestation and industrial set ups. The economic recession faced during the 2008 global financial crisis threw up challenges for Irish food and dairy products. The value of Irish exports, especially in the food and beverage segment, dropped significantly with the figures falling by 12% to stand at €7.12 billion, in comparison to the 2008 exports of €8.12 billion.

France Trade, Exports and Imports

France Trade
France's trade is one of the largest in the world. France exports and imports various raw materials, automobiles and electronic products. The country ranks sixth in the world in terms of export volumes and 5th when it comes to imports.
France Exports

In 2010, France’s exports totaled $456.8 billion including:

    * machinery and transportation equipment and aircraft
    * plastics, chemicals and pharmaceutical products
    * iron and steel
    * beverages

To export trading partners Germany (14.3%), Italy (8.7%), Spain (8.3%), UK (7.8%), Belgium (7.6%), US (5.8%), Netherlands (4.2%) Germany (14.9%), Spain (9.3%), Italy (8.9%), UK (8.1%), Belgium (7.3%), US (6.1%) and Netherlands (4.1%).
France Imports

France’s imports totaled up to $532.2 billion in 2010 declining from $692 billion in 2008. France main import commodities are:

    * Machinery and equipment
    * Vehicles and Aircraft
    * Crude oil
    * Plastics and Chemicals

To main import partners Germany (17.9%), Belgium (11.7%), Italy (8.3%), Spain (6.9%), Netherlands (6.8%), UK (5.1%), US (4.3%).


Besides French trade, tourism is also a big contributor to the national GDP.  France rules the tourism industry with over 82 million tourists visiting the country for its rich heritage and culture.

Agriculture is also another strong point for France's economy, with almost 25 percent of the EU’s total agricultural products being produced in France. The government provides subsidies to the agricultural sector and the development of this sector is likely to give export activities a further boost.

Germany Exports, Imports & Trade

Germany, the fifth largest economy in the world and the largest economy in the Euro-Zone, depends heavily on its exports to drive the economy. With a strong network of trade relationships with almost all the major trading countries in Europe and all over the world, along with a weakened euro, Germany became the world's 3rd largest exporter in 2010.

One of the strongest demand for German's commodities is automobiles. In 2009, Germany produced 5.2 million vehicles, and was the world's forth largest producer and largest exporter of automobiles. Germany automobile companies also dominate 90 percent of the top tier automobile market, which boasted brands such as Mercedes-Benz and Porsche.

As one of the main members of the EU, Germany also strengthened economic and political ties with other countries. It is a strong supporter of the United Nations and  OSCE (Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe). After the unification of the East and West Germany in 1990, relationships between the two former republics strengthened, with the West supporting the East in rebuilding its economy. Annual transfers amounting to US$80 billion was also transferred from the West to the East to aid in modernisation and integration of the whole Germany, which is expected to last till 2019.

Germany's Import and Export Indicators and Statistics at a Glance (2010)

Total value of exports: US$1.337 trillion

Primary exports - commodities: machinery, vehicles, chemicals, metals, manufactures, foodstuffs, textiles

Primary exports partners: France (10.2 percent of total exports), US (6.7 percent), Netherlands (6.7 percent), UK (6.6 percent), Italy (6.3 percent), Austria (6 percent), China (4.5 percent).

Total value of imports: US$1.12 trillion

Primary imports - commodities: machinery, vehicles, chemicals, foodstuffs, textiles, metals

Primary imports partners: Netherlands (8.5 percent of total imports), China (8.2 percent), France (8.2 percent), US (5.9 percent), Italy (5.9 percent), UK (4.9 percent), Belgium (4.3 percent), Austria (4.3 percent), Switzerland (4.2 percent)

Russia Trade, Exports and Imports

Rich in natural resources, Russia has the largest natural gas reserves in the world, the second largest coal reserves and the eighth largest oil reserves. All these resources constitute a major portion of Russia’s exports. In fact, 80% of Russia’s exports constitute oil, natural gas, metals, timber, and defense equipment. Russia uses these reserves to secure both its economic and political interests.

The EU is by far Russia’s biggest trading partner, accounting for 46.8% of its overall trade in 2010, and by far the most important investor for Russia. It is estimated that up to 75% of foreign direct investment in Russia came from EU member states.

Russia’s WTO Accession
Russia is the only major international economy that is not yet a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), a matter of fundamental importance for Russia’s economic modernization for sustainable growth. Should Russia become a member, it will greatly benefit from the multilateral trading system of the WTO.

From a broader systemic view, Russia would have to implement a number of legislative changes to bring its judiciary and regulatory system in line with WTO guidelines. In this regard, a number of new developments that concern the trade regime have taken place with the introduction of the customs union between Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus as of 1st January 2010.

Russia's Trade Indicators at a Glance (2010)
Current Account Balance: US$181.7 billion or 4.9% of GDP

Trade to GDP Ratio: 43.3%

Total value of exports: US$429.4 billion

Primary exports: oil, natural gas, metals, timber

Primary exports partners: EU (44.8%), United States (6.0%), China (5.8%), Turkey (4.9%), Ukraine (3.7%)

Total value of imports: US$247.7 billion

Primary imports: machinery, transport equipment, plastics, medicines, iron and steel, consumer goods, meat

Primary imports partners: EU (50.2%), China (14.1%), Ukraine (5.3%), Japan (3.8%), Belarus (3.4%)

England Trade, England Exports, England Imports

England is a highly industrialized economy with a well established trade infrastructure. Ever since colonization started, trade has been the most prominent factor of England’s economy. The legacy has been continued into the New World as well, with strong trading relations with the EU and other western countries.

England, as an industry, produces:

    *      Machine tools
    *      Electric power equipment
    *      Automation equipment
    *      Railroad equipment
    *      Ships
    *      Aircraft
    *      Motor vehicles and parts
    *      Electronics and communications equipment
    *      Metals
    *      Chemicals
    *      Coal
    *      Petroleum
    *      Paper and paper products
    *      Processed food
    *      Textiles

Correspondingly, England’s exports show a dominant presence of the aforementioned products as well.
England Trade: Exports and Imports

England, as a part of United Kingdom, recorded a figure of $351.3 billion in 2009 and ranked 10th in the world when it came to exports. Although the recession brought down the figure from $466.3 billion achieved in 2008, the economy was still helped by the amount of exports.



England’s most common exported commodities are:

• Manufactured goods
  
• Fuels
  
• Chemicals
  
• Food
  
• Beverages
  
• Tobacco
  

Major export partners are:

• US
  
• Germany
  
• Netherlands
  
• France
  
• Ireland
  
• Belgium
  
• Spain
  

Imports in 2009 were recorded at $473.6 billion, in contrast to $639.3 billion in 2008. England was the 7^th country in the world in terms of import volumes.
England’s imports are dominated by the following commodities:

• Manufactured goods
  
• Machinery
  
• Fuels
  
• Foodstuffs
  

England’s major import partners are:

• Germany
  
• US
  
• China
  
• Netherlands
  
• France
  
• Norway
  
• Belgium
  
• Italy
  

The real highlight of England’s trade, be it exports or imports, is its diverse reach. England trades with almost all the major countries of the world.

UK Export, Import and Trade

The UK is the 7th leading importer and the 11th leading exporter in the world. Accordingly, the UK holds a massive trade deficit with the rest of the world, second only to the US. In 2010, UK imports were worth US$546.5 billion with exports valued at only US$405.6 billion.

Despite recent attempts by the government to reduce the trade deficit, the latest data from UK’s Office of National Statistics points to an ever-widening trade gap. Since the beginning of 2011, UK’s monthly trade deficit has hit record levels of more than £4 billion per month. The monthly deficit in the UK for 2011 is also exceeding the previous record level of £3.5 billion per month reached in 2007.

Two commonly cited reasons for the UK’s record trade deficits have been its high inflation rate and budget deficit.

The high inflation rate has caused real depreciation of the Pound to be a lot smaller than the nominal depreciation. Furthermore pushing real interest rates below those of other countries has encouraged borrowing and discouraged savings – counteracting any little real depreciation.

The increase in UK’s budget deficit has also affected UK’s trade deficit. Therefore, the UK’s austerity plan to cut down public spending is necessary in order to reduce the trade deficit as well.

UK’s Import and Export Indicators and Statistics at a Glance (2010)

Total value of exports: US$405.6 billion

Primary exports - commodities: manufactured goods, fuels, chemicals; food, beverages, tobacco

Primary exports partners: US (14.71 percent), Germany (11.06 percent), France (8 percent), Netherlands (7.79 percent), Ireland (6.89 percent), Belgium (4.65 percent), Spain (4 percent)

Total value of imports: US$546.5 billion

Primary imports - commodities: manufactured goods, machinery, fuels; foodstuffs

Primary imports partners: Germany (12.87 percent), US (9.74 percent), China (8.88 percent), Netherlands (6.94 percent), France (6.64 percent), Belgium (4.86 percent), Norway (4.84 percent), Ireland (4.01 percent), Italy (3.99 percent)

Europe Trade, Exports and Imports

The European Union, in a bid to encourage interstate dependency and trading relationships, has abolished all forms of tariffs on trading and adopted a common currency. The move has definitely made this strong economic region even stronger. Such policies have resulted in Europe’s trade running smoothly internally and internationally.



In figures, European trade is the biggest in the world and is the source of all major heavy engineering products. Led by nations such as Germany, Italy, the UK and France, Europe’s trade is dominated by reliable automobiles and heavy machinery.
Europe Trade, Exports and Imports

Europe’s exports were reported at $1.952 trillion in 2007 and the continent ranked first across the globe in terms of export volumes. This volume has witnessed a positive increase ever since the currency was standardized.



The main commodities exported were:

    *      Machinery
    *      Motor vehicles
    *      Aircraft
    *      Plastics
    *      Pharmaceuticals and other chemicals
    *      Fuels
    *      Iron and steel
    *      Nonferrous metals
    *      Wood pulp and paper products
    *      Textiles
    *      Meat

    *      Dairy products
    *      Fish
    *      Alcoholic beverages



European imports were recorded at $1.69 trillion and the continent ranked first in terms of import volume as well.



The main commodities imported were:

    *      Machinery
    *      Vehicles
    *      Aircraft
    *      Plastics
    *     Crude oil
    *      Chemicals
    *     Textiles
    *      Metals
    *      Foodstuffs
    *      Clothing

Here is the list of commodities that the various countries of the European Union manufacture and export:


    *      Automobiles - France, Italy, UK, Germany, Czech Republic, Spain
    *      Fashion- Italy and France and other western European countries
    *      Aircraft- France and Germany
    *      Machinery- The entire continent
    *      Electronics- Italy, The Netherlands, Germany
    *      Food products such as wine, beer, cheeses, chocolates- Western Europe
    *      Pharmaceuticals- Switzerland
    *      Military equipment- UK, France, Italy, Germany, Russia
    *      Industrial chemicals- Most countries



Germany remains the largest player in terms of European trade, while the UK remains a financial hub for most activities in Europe.

Philippines' Import and Export

Historically, the Philippines have been an important centre for commerce for centuries for its ethnic minority, namely, the Chinese who were also its first occupants. The archipelago has also been visited by Arabs and Indians for the purpose of trading in the first and early second millennium. As of 21st century, the country is member in several international trade organizations including the APEC, ASEAN and WTO

Since 1980s, the Philippines have opened their economy to foreign markets, and established a network of free trade agreements with several countries. The United States is one of the Philippines top trading partner. In 2010, according to US Department of Commerce dad, trade between the Philippines and US amounts to US$15.4 billion. US is also the Philippines largest foreign investor, with foreign direct investment close to US$6 billion at the end of 2009.

Under the new Aquino administration, the government plans to open up the country to more foreign investment in industries such as business processing operations, mining and tourism. However, this move may be hindered by restrictions such a prohibition of foreign ownership of land and public utilities.
List of the Philippines FTAs

ASEAN FTA

ASEAN - China FTA

ASEAN - Japan CEP

ASEAN - Korea FTA

ASEAN - ANZ FTA

ASEAN - India FTA

ASEAN - EU FTA
Philippines' Import and Export Indicators and Statistics at a Glance (2010)

Total value of exports: US$50.72 billion

Primary exports - commodities: semiconductors and electronic products, transport equipment, garments, copper products, petroleum products, coconut oil, fruits

Primary exports partners: US (17.6 percent of total exports), Japan (16.2 percent), Netherlands (9.8 percent), Hong Kong (8.6 percent), China (7.7 percent), Germany (6.5 percent), Singapore (6.2 percent), South Korea (4.8 percent)

Total value of imports: US$59.9 billion

Primary imports - commodities: electronic products, mineral fuels, machinery and transport equipment, iron and steel, textile fabrics, grains, chemicals, plastic

Primary imports partners: Japan (12.5 percent of total imports), US (12 percent), China (8.8 percent), Singapore (8.7 percent), South Korea (7.9 percent), Taiwan (7.1 percent), Thailand (5.7 percent)

Vietnam Trade, Exports and Imports

As per the General Statistics Office (GSO) of Vietnam, the 2009 export turnovers were estimated to be US$56.6 billion, reflecting a drop of 9.7% from 2008. The import turnovers of 2009 were anticipated to be US$68.8 billion, which showed a drop by 14.7% from 2008. Although the decreased import turnovers were higher than export turnovers, the 2009 trade deficits was estimated to be US$12.2 billion, reduced by 32.1% reported in 2008 and equaling 21.6% of the total export turnovers of 2009.

FDI companies contributed 36% of the total imports in 2009, while the rest 64% was made up by the local companies. The total export results of the same year read 47% earnings by FDI companies (excluding crude oil) and 53% by local companies. 
Vietnam Trade: Exports and Imports

Vietnam's main exports include:

    *

      crude oil
    *

      textiles and garment
    *

      rice
    *

      coffee
    *

      rubber
    *

      coal
    *

      aquaculture
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      processed forest products

Although agricultural produce crowds the export item list, this will soon transform as Vietnam increases its industrial base. The 2009 report states 11% earnings on crude oil, 7% on aquatic products, 7% footwear, 5% electronic equipment, 5% jewelry, 5% rice, 4% wooden products, 4% machinery, 3% coffee, 2% anthracite and 2% rubber.

Vietnam’s key import commodities include:

    *

      petroleum products
    *

      steel
    *

      fertilizer
    *

      electronics
    *

      machinery and equipment

The year 2009 saw Vietnam import rubber worth USD 90 million, US$400 million plastics, US$440 million machineries, USD 390 million electronic goods and USD 350 million steel, among others.
Vietnam Trade Partners

Currently, Vietnam's major trading partners include Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea and the European Union. Its trade with the Asian economies constitutes approximately 80 percent of its total trade. Before 1990, Vietnam's chief trading partners included socialist countries, especially the Soviet Union.



Major markets of Vietnam in the export business 2007 were:

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      Petrochemicals
    *

      Construction Industry
    *

      Cement Industry
    *

      Power Generation/Electricity
    *

      Food and beverage
    *

      Paper and Pulp
    *

      Plastic and Rubber 

ASEAN

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) includes countries, such as Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Vietnam had taken on the role of President of the ASEAN, beginning January 01, 2010. The country aims to utilize its term as the president to accelerate development of the ASEAN Community, strengthen regional solidarity and cooperation, and enhance Vietnam’s image at the international front.

Singapore Exports, Imports and Trade

Singapore is the 14th largest exporter and the 15th largest importer in the world. Historically, international trade has strongly influenced the economy. According to the WTO, Singapore has the highest trade to GDP ratio in the world at 407.9 percent. Due to its geostrategic location and developed port facilities, a large volume of Singapore's merchandise exports involve entrepôt trade – with 47 percent of exports consisting of re-exports.

As a strong advocate of free trade, Singapore has relatively few trade barriers. Trade partners with Most Favoured Nation (MFN) have zero tariff rates applied to their products apart from six lines for alcoholic beverages. There are however some import restrictions based mainly on environmental, health, and public security concerns. The import of rice also requires import licensing in order to ensure food security and price stability.

Due to its relatively small domestic market, Singapore’s trade policy is often aligned with that of external agencies. In the international arena, Singapore’s principal priority lies with the WTO and the Doha Development Agenda. Singapore is also a member of numerous regional free trade agreements (FTAs) including the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA), the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand FTA (AANZFTA), the ASEAN-China FTA (ACFTA), the ASEAN-India FTA (AIFTA), the ASEAN-Japan Comprehension Economic Partner (AJCEP), and the ASEAN-Korea FTA (AKFTA). Other multilateral agreements include the Singapore-Europe Free Trade Association FTA (ESFTA – Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland), the Gulf Cooperation Council-Singapore FTA (GSFTA – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates), and the Trans-Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership (TPFTA – Brunei, Chile and New Zealand). Finally, Singapore also maintains bilateral free trade agreements with Australia (Singapore-Australia FTA), China (China-Singapore FTA), Jordan (Singapore-Jordan FTA), India (India-Singapore Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement), Japan (Japan-Singapore Economic Partnership Agreement), Korea (Korea-Singapore FTA), New Zealand (Agreement between New Zealand and Singapore on a Closer Economic Partnership), Panama (Panama-Singapore FTA), Peru (Peru-Singapore FTA) and the US (US-Singapore FTA).

Singapore’s Import and Export Indicators and Statistics at a Glance (2010)

Total value of exports: US$351.2 billion

Primary exports - commodities: machinery and equipment (including electronics), consumer goods, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals, mineral fuels

Primary exports partners: Hong Kong (11.6 percent of total exports), Malaysia (11.5 percent), US (11.2 percent), Indonesia (9.7 percent), China (9.7 percent), Japan (4.6 percent)

Total value of imports: US$310.4 billion

Primary imports - commodities: machinery and equipment, mineral fuels, chemicals, foodstuffs, consumer goods

Primary imports partners: US (14.7 of total imports), Malaysia (11.6 percent), China (10.5 percent), Japan (7.6 percent), Indonesia (5.8 percent), South Korea (5.7 percent)

Malaysia Trade, Exports and Imports

Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, has been a trade hub for centuries. Since the beginning of history, Malacca has served as a fundamental regional commercial center for Chinese, Indian, Arab and Malay merchants for trade of precious goods. Today, Malaysia shares healthy trade relations with a number of countries, specifically the US. The country is associated with trade organizations, such as APEC, ASEAN and WTO. The ASEAN Free Trade Area that was established for trade promotion among ASEAN members also has Malaysia as its founding member. Malaysia has also signed Free Trade Agreements with countries including Japan, Pakistan, China and New Zealand.



Malaysia was once the world’s largest producer of tin, rubber and palm oil. Its manufacturing sector has a crucial role in its economic growth. The export industry was hit hard during the late 2000 economic recession drastically dropping to 78% i.e. FDI to RM4.2 billion in the first two quarters of 2009. Total exports fell down to $156.4 billion in 2009 from $198.7 billion in 2008. The imports also reduced from 154.7 billion in 2008 to $119.5 billion 2009.
Malaysia Exports Commodities

Malaysia mainly exports the following commodities:

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      Electronic equipment
    *

      Petroleum and liquefied natural gas
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      Wood and wood products
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      Palm oil
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      Rubber
    *

      Textiles
    *

      Chemicals

Malaysia Exports Partners

The following graph depicts the shares of various export partners of Malaysia:
Malaysia's Export Partners 


Malaysia Imports Commodities

Malaysia mainly imports the following commodities:

    *

      Electronics
    *

      Machinery
    *

      Petroleum products
    *

      Plastics
    *

      Vehicles
    *

      Iron and steel products
    *

      Chemicals

Malaysia Imports Partners

The following graph depicts the share of various import partners of Malaysia:



Malaysia's Import Partners

Pakistan's Import and Export

Pakistan’s international trade is suffering from huge amount of deficit due to low demand for its exports. Domestic political instability also accounts for trade deficit. The trade deficit stood at US$3.946 billion in 2010. Pakistan is a member of several international organizations such as ECO (Economic Cooperation Organization), SAFTA(South Asian Free Trade Area) , WIPO(World INtellectual Property Organization) and WTO (World Trade Organization).

Steps have been taken to liberalize the trade and investment regimes of the country. Due to increasing current account deficit, the trade gap range of maximum tariffs was raised from 20%-25% to the 30%-35% on 300 luxury items by Pakistani government in the 2008-09 budget. This measure brought about the decrease in imports and the increase in exports, thus lowering trade deficits from US$9.261 billion in 2009 to US$3.946 billion in 2010.

Pakistan's failure to explore and exploit its own oil and gas resources to its full capacity has led to them relying on imports  to meet the growing energy demands in the country. By 2011, experts forecasts that Pakistan's oil imports will rise to US$13.221 billion from the US$10.089 billion in 2010.
List of Pakistan's FTAs

Pak-Afghanistan Trade Agreement

Agreement on South Asian Free Trade Area

Pak-Malaysia Trade Agreements

Pak-China Trade Agreements

Pak-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement

Pak-Iran Preferential Trade Agreement

Pak-Mauritius Preferential Trade Agreement
Pakistan's Import and Export Indicators and Statistics at a Glance (2010)

Total value of exports: US$20.29 billion

Primary exports - commodities: textiles (garments, bed linen, cotton cloth, yarn), circe, leather goods, sports goods, chemicals, manufactures, carpets and rugs

Primary export partners: US (15.87 percent of total valor of exports), UAE (12.35 percent), Afghanistan (8.48 percent), UK (4.7 percent), China (4.44 percent).

Total value of imports: US$32.71 billion

Primary imports - commodities: petroleum, petroleum products, machinery, plastics, transportation equipment, edible oils, paper and paperboard, iron and steel, tea

Primary import partners: China (15.35 percent of total imports), Saudi Arabia (10.54 percent), UAE (9.8 percent), US (4.81 percent), Kuwait (4.73 percent), Malaysia (4.43 percent), India (4.02 percent).