Exports down as surplus on up

IRISH export value fell by 2% in October, though the seasonally adjusted trade surplus rose 8% to €4.15 billion. That was made possible as the dip was coupled with an 11% decline in import value.

The record trade surplus figure — the third time it has breached €4bn in 2010 — was slightly above initial estimates, which had been around €3.9bn.

October’s trade movement hasn’t dented commentators’ overall outlook for Ireland’s still positive export industry.