São Paulo – The Brazilian trade balance had a similar performance in January to that of the same month last year. Exports stood at slightly over US$ 16 billion, up only 0.4% according to information released this Monday (3rd) by the Brazilian Ministry of Development, Industry and Foreign Trade. Imports, in turn, have barely exceeded US$ 20 billion, also a 0.4% increase. As a result, Brazil posted a deficit slightly higher than US$ 4 billion, similar to January 2013.
According to the ministry, basic goods exports have increased, especially crude oil, soy bran, livestock, beef, and iron ore.
On the other hand, semi-manufactured and manufactured goods exports have dropped, particularly cast iron, semi-manufactured gold, raw aluminium, semi-manufactured steel and iron, raw sugar, refined sugar, ethanol, autos, auto parts, frozen orange juice, cargo vehicles, engines, and flat-rolled steel sheets.
Exports have increased only to Asia and Latin America and the Caribbean, excepting the Mercosur countries. Exports to the remaining blocs, the Mercosur included, have declined.
On the other hand, imports of consumer goods, capital goods, raw materials, and intermediate goods have increased. Imports of fuels and lubricants, however, have declined. Imports from Eastern Europe, Asia, and Africa have increased, according to the Brazilian Ministry of Development, Industry and Foreign Trade.
*Translated by Gabriel Pomerancblum
