The value of Dutch exports rose 9% in May, compared with a year ago, showing the fastest growth in the past 18 months, the national statistics office CBS said on Thursday.

In total, the Netherlands exported goods worth €36.9bn. Imports were up 7% at €33.3bn, taking the Dutch trade surplus up to €3.6bn.
Raw materials and mineral fuels showed the biggest increase, due to sharp price rises for oil.
However, the CBS said it does not expect the rise to continue in June because of the worsening global economic conditions.