Singapore's non-oil domestic exports fell 20.7 percent on the year in March after falling 0.2 percent in February and fell 8.4 percent on the month after a previous decline of 4.9 percent. The large year-over-year decline reflects the base effect of a big increase in exports twelve months previously. Imports fell 0.1 percent on the year in March after increasing 5.6 percent in February and increased 3.7 percent on the month after an increase of 1.0 percent previously.

Exports of electronics products fell 9.4 percent on the year after advancing 5.2 percent previously, while exports of non-electronic products fell 23.2 percent after dropping 1.7 percent previously. This sharp year-over-year decline in non-electronic exports in March was largely driven by exports of ships and pharmaceuticals, two categories that are often very volatile. Exports to the European Union, Japan, and the United States all fell sharply on the year in March but exports to China and Taiwan rebounded after previous declines.

Singapore publishes monthly data (both in nominal and real terms) for the current and previous two months, cumulative-to-date data on imports and exports by country of origin and destination, as well as monthly seasonally adjusted trade data. Imports refer to goods brought into Singapore irrespective of whether they are for consumption, for processing, for use in manufacturing, or for subsequent re-shipment to other countries/areas. Exports refer to goods brought out of Singapore. They comprise domestic exports and re-exports. Data are also disseminated on imports broken down by country of origin and domestic exports and re-exports broken down by country of destination.

Changes in the level of imports and exports, along with the difference between the two (the trade balance) are a valuable gauge of economic trends here and abroad. While these trade figures can directly impact all financial markets, they also affect currency values in foreign exchange markets. However, the foreign exchange impact is muted here given that Singapore’s currency is managed by the central bank.

Imports indicate demand for foreign goods and services in the local economy. Exports show the demand for local goods in countries overseas. Movements in the trade balance directly affect GDP growth because of the Singapore’s dependence on trade. Stronger exports are bullish for corporate earnings and the stock market. The bond market is also sensitive to the risk of importing inflation.

This report also gives a breakdown of trade with major countries as well, so it can be instructive for investors who are interested in diversifying globally. For example, a trend of accelerating exports to a particular country might signal economic strength and investment opportunities in that country.