EU agri-food exports in February 2016 were worth €10.2 billion, which is well above export values in January 2016 and even slightly above exports in February 2015, according to the latest monthly statistical report.
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.
