After dropping a yearly 9.6 percent in April, Singapore's non-oil domestic exports edged only 0.1 percent lower in May for the mildest decline in nearly two years. Non-oil exports also declined 0.1 percent on the month. Imports rose 16.0 percent on the year in May after advancing 18.2 in April and fell 2.6 percent on the month after an increase of 4.2 percent previously.
 
Exports of electronics products surged 21.9 percent on the year after increasing 3.3 percent previously, while exports of non-electronic products fell 6.0 percent after dropping 12.6 percent previously. This year-over-year decline in non-electronic exports in May was again largely driven by exports of pharmaceuticals, a category that is often very volatile. Exports to the United States and South Korea rebounded sharply in May after previous declines in April, with exports to the European Union also falling at a less pronounced rate. Exports to China and Japan, however, fell on the year after previous increases.

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.