Media Release
Exports in all sectors grew in 2006 with minerals and fuels
exports leading the way, up 21 per cent in value (to
$21.3 billion). Exports of manufactures were up
14 per cent (to $42.1 billion) and service exports
8 per cent (to $43.8 billion). Rural exports grew
6 per cent (to $26.2 billion) despite the impact of the
drought.
Overall, the value of Australia's exports of goods and
services rose to $210 billion in 2006, a 16 per cent rise
on 2005. Exports volumes rose 3 per cent, while prices
received rose 12 per cent.
Australia's strong export performance is highlighted in
the Autumn 2007 issue of Trade Topics: A Quarterly Review of
Australia's International Trade, released today by the
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
The Autumn 2007 issue of Trade Topics also features a
number of trade-related articles. They include an article on
Australia's role in hosting the Asia Pacific Economic
Cooperation (APEC) forum this year, the largest and most
significant meeting of world leaders ever held in Australia. There
is also an article on the strong Australian exports performance to
Japan in recent years and the potential gains from a free trade
agreement. Another article focuses on trade facilitation, its
economic significance and its important role in broadening trading
relationships. It is a key part of APEC's work, has been
under negotiation in the Doha Round, and is a significant element
of Australia's bilateral trade relations. The final article
highlights the conclusion of a recent report by DFAT's
Economic Analytical Unit on the emerging opportunities for
Australian services providers in India's services-led
growth.
Trade Topics consolidates a range of statistical
information produced by Australian government agencies and
international organisations and provides analysis of latest trade
developments and issues of significance to Australia. Trade
Topics includes quarterly and annual data on Australia's
trade in goods and services by commodity, market, level of
processing, and State and Territory as well as selected
macroeconomic, commodity price and investment information.
The publication is one of a series of trade publications
published each year by DFAT. Copies can be purchased through the
Market Information and Analysis Section (ph 02 6261 3114, fax 02
6261 3321 or email statssection@dfat.gov.au).
The analysis and summary tables from publications, and an order
form, are available at: www.dfat.gov.au/publications/statistics.html.
Media Inquiries: DFAT Media Liaison on 02 6261 1555