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Annual trade deficit unexpectedly shrank in May

The country's trade deficit fell to $2.57 billion in the 12 months through May.

Tina Morrison
Fri, 26 Jun 2015

New Zealand's annual trade deficit unexpectedly shrank in May as exports rose more than forecast and imports lagged predictions.

The country's trade deficit fell to $2.57 billion in the 12 months through May, according to Statistics NZ. That was lower than the $2.66 billion annual deficit in April and the $2.9 billion forecast by economists in a Reuters survey.

For the month of May, New Zealand had a surplus of $350 million, beating expectations for a $100 million deficit.

May exports declined 4.7% to $4.36 billion in May from the year earlier month, ahead of expectations for $4.27 billion. The export decline was led by a 28% drop in milk powder, butter and cheese.

Meanwhile, imports in May fell 7% to $4.01 billion in May from a year earlier, less than the $4.29 billion expected. Imports of intermediate goods declined, led by crude oil, and capital goods.

(BusinessDesk)

Tina Morrison
Fri, 26 Jun 2015
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Annual trade deficit unexpectedly shrank in May
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