Increase Predicted In Bali's Exports of Non-Oil/Gas Commodities

Denpasar (Antara Bali) - Business leaders predicted that Bali's exports of commodities other than oil and gas would increase in the rest of the year on expected improvement of economic condition in destination countries.

In addition, exporters are more aggressive in diversifying export markets and there are efforts to strengthen competitive edge by improving the quality of export commodities, a business leader Made Jiwa said here on Saturday.

Made said the largest export market for Bali's commodities is the United States, followed by Japan, Australia, Singapore, and China respectively accounting for 25.02 percent, 8.23 percent, 7.22 percent, 6.71 percent and 5.10 percent of Bali's exports in value.

In the first five months of this year, Bali exported US$208.2 million worth of goods, down 3.01 percent from US$214.7 million the same period last year.

Under the present condition, Bali's exports are relatively stable, despite the unfavorable condition of the global market, Made said.
Bali's exports to the United States are dominated by fish, and shrimps, non knitted ready made wear, timber, and timber products and plaited goods.

Bali reported a surplus of US$141.9 million in the first five months of the year with exports valued at US$208.2 million and imports at US$66.3 million.

The surplus fell slightly from US$157.4 million in the same period last year with exports valued at US$214.7 million and imports at US$57.8 million. (WDY)