AU: Overseas Merchandise Trade, December 2025

December Trade Balance Sees Significant Growth

In December, the seasonally adjusted goods trade surplus expanded by $776 million. Export values climbed by $440 million, or 1.0%, largely due to higher shipments of metal ores and minerals. Meanwhile, imports of goods declined by $336 million (0.8%), mainly because of a reduction in other merchandise goods.

Rural goods exports increased by $174 million (2.5%), with the 'other rural' category contributing a $103 million (3.7%) rise. Non-rural goods exports also saw an uptick of $315 million (1.0%), again led by metal ores and minerals, which grew by $420 million (3.0%).

Exports of consumption goods were up $99 million (0.8%), primarily driven by a $82 million (4.1%) boost in textiles, clothing, and footwear. On the other hand, capital goods imports dropped by $243 million (2.5%), with capital goods not elsewhere specified falling by $224 million (12.1%). Imports of intermediate and other merchandise goods also declined by $225 million.