The monthly value of EU agri-food exports in September 2016 reached a record value of almost €11.5 billion exceeding the export values in September of previous years by about €500 million, according to the latest EU agri-food trade monthly report  . The highest increases in monthly values (September 2016 compared to September 2015) were recorded for exports to the USA and Japan, with notable increases also seen to other Asian destinations (South Korea, Vietnam, India, Hong Kong).

Analysing the EU export performance over the last 12 months per product category, export values increased in particular for pig meat (€+1.2 billion; +31% compared to export values in the 12-month period one year ago), fresh vegetables (€+480 million; +18%), meat offal, other meat and fat , olive oil, food preparations and live animals. However, exports of milk powders lost most in export values in the last 12 months.

The biggest export item of the EU countries are wines (1.03 billion EUR, an increase of 7.5%) and spirits (1.02 billion EUR, a decrease of 4%). Large growth was reported in exports of oil, olive oil and palm oil. Reduces export of eggs and honey.

With overall EU agri-food exports from October 2015 to September 2016 reaching €129.9 billion (+1.6% on the previous year) and imports rising 0.9% to €112 billion, the EU increased its net surplus to € 17.6 billion.

agronews