differences between import and export figures

[Isin Guler]

Hi, I notice that the aggregate import figures to reporter country A
from partner country B do not equal export figures from reporter
country B to partner country A (the same is true for gross imports/
exports and reimports/reexports). Can you tell me why the discrepancy?

Thank you,
Isin Guler

[samuel.m...@unctad.org]

Imports reported by one country do not coincide with exports reported
by its trading partner. Differences are due to various factors
including valuation (imports CIF, exports FOB), differences in
inclusions/ exclusions of particular commodities, timing etc.
For furher information please refer to the recommendations for
international merchandise trade statistics that can be found in the
International Merchandise Trade Statistics: Compilers Manual at
http://unstats.un.org/unsd/trade/methodology%20IMTS.htm.
Additional methodological information can be found on the same web
page.
Sam