The deficit in trade between the EU-27 and the rest of the world reached 105.5 billion in 2009, while a year earlier – in 2008 amounted to 258.4 billion, showing a pre-data statistical office Eurostat. As regards the euro zone trade balance was positive amounting to 22.3 billion euros, against a deficit of 54.7 billion for 2008. In December 2009 the EU has 2,5 Bn deficit in trade with third countries. Over the same period last year there was a decline in the deficit from 8,8 billion. The previous November, the trade balance was again negative, amounting to 6,8 billion euros, 24.4 billion compared to November 2008. Eurostat data for the period January – November 2009 showed a significant reduction in the deficit in trade in energy resources – from 350.7 billion euros in 11 months of 2008 to 212.1 billion in 2009. Reduced surplus in trade in machinery and equipment (from 138.9 billion to 99 billion euros). As regards trade with chemical products, however, there is growth in the surplus with 5,4 billion euro to 74.1 billion euros in total.
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