According to the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC), in 2017 the commercial balance was $10.9 billion in exports and $16.7 billion in imports, for a deficit result of $5.8 billion, compared to the $240 million of deficit in 2016.
In one year exports grew by 3.8% and 3.9%, respectively, according to the final report of foreign trade figures.
The main export products of 2017 were fruits (bananas and pineapples, mainly) and medical devices (syringes, needles, catheters, cannulas, medical devices and prostheses). Both sectors cover 36% of the total exports.
On the side of imports, the most valuable products were gasoline, diesel, medicines for human use, mobile phones and vehicles. In total, they accounted for 19% of purchases to other countries.
The United States continues to be the country’s main trading partner (45% of imports and 40% of exports).