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According to data compiled by the
Netherlands Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis, world trade volume plummeted by 2.5 percent in April from the previous month, following a downwardly revised rise of 1.1 percent in March. Most regions recorded declining trade volumes on either the import or export side, or both. The declines were largest among emerging economies, particularly in Africa, the Middle East and in Asia. The United States’ imports fell by 2.6 percent. Japan’s imports recovered somewhat, but its exports plunged by 7.0 percent. Trade was stagnant in the euro area.
Prices jumped nearly 2.8 percent between March and April, and are now up 27.9 percent from their February 2009 low.
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The U.S.
goods and services deficit narrowed slightly in April, to $43.7 billion (from $46.8 billion in March). Exports totaled $175.6 billion (up from $173.4 billion in March), while imports totaled $219.2 billion (down from $220.2 billion in March).
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Paper exports increased by 44,000 tons (1.4 percent) in April, while imports fell by 34,000 tons (8.4 percent). Exports remained 357,000 tons (12.2 percent) above and imports 7,000 tons (1.9 percent) below year-earlier levels.
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Softwood lumber exports fell by 4 MMBF (3.0 percent) in April while imports retreated by 47 MMBF (5.6 percent). Exports were 17 MMBF (13.4 percent) higher than year-earlier levels, but imports were 105 MMBF (11.8 percent) lower.
Everything seems to be under control. There should always be trade balance. Even though a rate has taken a dip, one still has to assume that another rate will surge up. It's a constant in determining the trade balance. If there isn't any balance at all, a country will have difficulties in putting it back.
ReplyDeleteChris Ricci