RAMALLAH, February 21, 2017 (WAFA) – Palestinian exports and imports decreased in December compared to November, yet the gap between them remained massive: Exports reached $85 million while imports hit the $457 million mark.

According to figures released on Tuesday by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS), December exports decreased by 6 per cent when compared by November but increased by 9 per cent when compared to the same month of the previous year to reach $85 million.

Exports to Israel increased in December by 1 per cent compared to November and represented 89 per cent of total December exports.

On the other hand, exports to other countries decreased by 38 per cent during the same period.

Imports decreased in December by 4 per cent when compared to November, while they increased by 10 per cent compared to December 2015 and reached around $457 million.

Imports from Israel increased by 3 per cent in December compared to November and represented 58 per cent of total December imports.

On the other hand, imports from other countries decreased by 13 per cent compared to November.

The trade balance, which represents the difference between exports and imports, showed a decrease in trade deficit by 4 per cent in December compared to November, while it increased by 10 per cent compared to December 2015 and reached around $372 million, said the PCBS.

M.K.