Flanders also remained a net exporter of agricultural products over the past year. The trade balance is €6,3 billion. This is apparent from the agro-trade report of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. The Netherlands is Flanders' most important trading partner, followed by France.
The trade in agricultural products has been hit less hard by the corona pandemic than the total Flemish trade. This is apparent from the agro-trade report of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. Total exports of goods fell by 8% last year and imports decreased by 10%. On the other hand, exports of agricultural products 'only' fell by 0,8%, while imports even increased by 1,6%. "As an essential sector, the agri-food chain was able to continue to run at full speed, although we did see a decrease in demand for certain products as a result of the forced closure of the catering industry," the report said.
Over the past year, imports amounted to €32,6 billion and exports amounted to €38,9 billion. With a trade balance of €6,3 billion, Flanders remains a net exporter of agricultural products. The Flemish share in total Belgian imports and exports of agricultural products amounts to 85%.
Dairy is the most important category
Within the total agricultural trade, dairy products are the most important category. Both the import value and export value are the highest. Cocoa and fresh meat are in second and third place respectively. Both categories have a trade surplus of more than €1 billion. This surplus is also visible for potato preparations, beer and confectionery products. Frozen vegetables, fertilizers and animal feed also frequently crossed the Flemish border last year.
In addition, 82% of total exports remain within the EU-28. The Netherlands is the largest sales market for Flanders, with an amount of €7,6 billion. France follows with €7,5 billion. Germany and the United Kingdom are in third and fourth place. Outside the European Union – especially for the sale of beer and flax – the United States and China are at the top. The Netherlands is also the largest supplier to Flanders, with an amount of €9,6 billion. Only 27% of imported products come from outside the EU-28. This mainly concerns certain types of fruit and coffee.
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