The value of Ireland's exports to non-EU countries dropped by 4 per cent 2003 latest data published by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show.
According to the CSO a significant drop in machinery and transport equipment contributed to the fall-off. Imports from non-EU countries also dropped in the 12 months to December 2003.
According to the CSO on a seasonally adjusted basis, the value of exports in December grew to €2.9 billion when compared with the November 2003 value of €2.58 billion while imports fell to €1.58 billion from €1.76 billion.
Over a 12-month period, the value of overall exports fell by 4 per cent to €31.77 billion while imports dropped 3 per cent to €18.32 billion.
In the medical and pharmaceutical sector the value of exports dropped 27 per cent to €2.84 billion. Computer sales to non-EU countries dropped 16 per4 cent to €4.8 billion in the 12 months to December 2003.
The most significant percentage sector growth was in exports oils used in the food and drink industries. Exports of this product grew by 111 per cent to €1.73 billion.
Over the same 12 month period US imports dropped 14 per cent to €6.99 billion.