Media Release
Australia's exports rose 16 per cent in 2006 to a record
$210 billion. A new Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
publication released today details Australia's record
breaking export performance achieved in resources, manufacturing
and services.
Composition of Trade, Australia 2006 shows that resource
exports led by fuels and minerals grew strongly. Exports of iron
ore rose 30 per cent to $14.4 billion, gold
57 per cent to $9.1 billion, aluminium ores
30 per cent to $6.1 billion, aluminium
33 per cent to $5.9 billion and natural gas
39 per cent to $5.1 billion.
Exports of manufactures posted double-digit growth, rising 13
per cent to $42 billion with exports of simply
transformed manufactures rising 32 per cent to
$14.6 billion. Services exports expanded
eight per cent to $43.8 billion led by
education-related travel services, which rose 14 per cent
to $10.5 billion.
The strong rise in Australia's exports more than offset a
12 per cent rise in imports, which was underpinned by
robust domestic consumption and investment. This has resulted in a
fall of 31 per cent ($5.1 billion) in the trade deficit
to $11.6 billion.
Japan remained Australia's largest merchandise export
market, accounting for 20 per cent ($32.5 billion)
of exports, followed by China ($20.4 billion) and the Republic
of Korea ($12.3 billion).
Composition of Trade, Australia 2006provides a
comprehensive analysis of the growth, direction and commodity
breakdown of Australia's merchandise exports and imports in recent
years, and details of services trade over a five year
period.
The publication (priced at $55) is part of a series published
each year by DFAT, providing comprehensive information on
Australia's international trade in goods and services.
DFAT also offers a customised consultancy service, producing
reports tailored to specific requirements. For further information
please contact (02) 6261 3114, or fax (02) 6261 3321 or email statssection@dfat.gov.au.
The analysis and summary tables from publications are placed on
the DFAT website at /trade. Orders for
publications can also be placed at this site.
Media Inquiries: DFAT Media Liaison on 02 6261 1555