Value of export trade with CEFTA-countries shows disappointing decline

The Economy Minister says despite the decreasing negative balance-of-trade with Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA) countries, the export situation is worsening with sales of cheaper products increasing and sales of more expensive products decreasing. Export of food products increased from 5.5% in 1996 to 12.7% 1999, but the export of chemical- and steel-products decreased significantly. The trade deficit has increased from $34.5 million to $170.7 million. The trade balance is only positive with Bulgaria. (Parkiet, page 7) M.M.