Iceland has made significant progress in reducing its trade deficit, signaling a healthier balance between exports and imports. Recent data highlights a consistent decline in the gap, reaching the lowest point in over a year. This improvement is largely driven by increased demand for Icelandic exports, particularly in seafood and aluminum, coupled with a slight moderation in import growth amid global economic uncertainties.

Key factors contributing to this trend include:

  • Growth in export volumes: A surge in international orders has boosted Iceland’s shipment figures.
  • Stabilization of import costs: Lower global commodity prices have eased inflationary pressures on imported goods.
  • Exchange rate effects: A relatively stronger Icelandic króna has tempered the cost of foreign goods.
Month Trade Balance (ISK billions) Export Growth (%) Import Growth (%)
March 2023 -10.5 2.4 8.1
September 2023 -4.2 5.7 3.2
April 2024 -1.1 7.3 2.9