AS per the WTO latest figures, the value of world merchandise trade was 17% higher in the Q 4 of 2010 compared to the same period of 2009.

Over the year 2010, merchandise exports increased by 22% in value. A more comprehensive analysis of the annual picture with statistics in volume terms, the latest trends and a forecast for the coming year will be released in early April.

Moreover, WTO short-term merchandise trade values are not seasonally adjusted. Seasonal patterns therefore considerably affect the quarter on quarter (Q-o-Q) and month on month (M-o-M) developments in world trade, and this in turn affects comparisons between the trade developments in individual regions and economies. Available monthly statistics for about 70 economies representing more than 90% of world trade show that merchandise trade decreased in December 2010, reflecting in good part seasonal variations. Nonetheless, this year-end value is above the comparable pre-crisis level of December 2008.

Comparing the fourth quarter of 2010 with the same period in 2009, the region with the largest growth rate was South and Central America with exports growing by 25% and imports by 30%. Asian exports rose by about 23% and imports by around 22% on a “year-on-year” basis.