Key Points

• UK Trade shows the extent of import and export activity and is a key contributor to the overall economic growth in the UK.
• Seasonally adjusted, the UK's deficit on trade in goods and services was estimated to have been £1.3 billion in March 2014, compared with a deficit of £1.7 billion in February 2014.
• There was a deficit of £8.5 billion on goods, partly offset by an estimated surplus of £7.2 billion on services.
• Exports of goods increased by 4.9% between February and March 2014 to £24.6 billion reflecting an increase in exports of finished manufactures, including jewellery and cars. Imports of goods increased by 2.8% over the same period to £33.1 billion, with an increase in the imports of aircraft a significant factor.
• Exports of goods decreased by 3.7% to £72.0 billion in Q1 2014. Imports of goods decreased by 2.8% to £98.7 billion in Q1 2014.