VALLETTA, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- Malta's imports nearly doubled the amount it exported throughout 2024, according to data released on Tuesday by the National Statistics Office (NSO).
The figures revealed that the island's trade deficit widened by 536.3 million euros (558 million U.S. dollars) compared to the same period in 2023, reaching a total of 4,634.2 million euros.
Imports amounted to 9,743.5 million euros, while exports totaled 5,109.3 million euros, representing increases of 980.6 million euros in imports and 444.3 million euros in exports.
The rise in imports was primarily driven by higher imports of mineral fuels, lubricants, and related materials, as well as machinery and transport equipment.
On the export side, notable increases were seen in mineral fuels, lubricants, and related materials, along with chemicals.
In terms of trading partners, goods were predominantly imported from and exported to the European Union and Asia. France saw the largest increase in imports, while Germany experienced the most significant drop. Meanwhile, exports to the United States saw the highest rise, while those to Germany declined the most.
