Highest increases in monthly export values in February 2016 were witnessed for the USA (+15%) and China(+13.5%). For the past 12 months, imports increased by 8.4% compared to the same period one year ago, the export surplus standing at about €16 billion. This month's report focuses on EU trade with China, which is the second most important destination and the fourth most important origin for EU agri-food imports. In 2015, exports to China increased in all major product groups with the most significant hike in commodities (+71%; from €1 billion to €1.7 billion). For example, pork exports to China more than doubled (from €432 million to €934 million) in 2015 which demonstrates the importance of pig meat in EU exports to China.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Phil Hogan is this week on a visit to China and Japan accompanied by a business delegation of European agri-food executives representing key sectors in the EU trade. Opening up new markets and promoting consumption of EU dairy products and pig meat is one of his priorities.

Source: ec.europa.eu