Brazil - Netherlands Trade 2023 Q4: $3B Surplus Dominance

Key Market Takeaways: Brazil - Netherlands Trade

The bilateral trade relationship between Brazil and Netherlands is marked by Brazil's strong export dominance and volatile growth trends in Q4 2023.

• Brazil runs a $3.01B trade surplus, with exports ($3.64B) far exceeding imports ($630.94M). Despite mixed YoY growth, December saw a sharp MoM drop (-36.52%).
• Trade statistics reveal an intra-industry exchange in mineral fuels (HS 27), with Brazil exporting raw materials (45.59% of exports) and importing refined products (40.25% of imports).
• The Netherlands holds the higher value-add position, refining Brazil's crude exports—a classic complementary dynamic in energy trade.

This bilateral trade snapshot is based on verified customs data from the yTrade database.

Brazil-Netherlands Trade Trend in Q4 2023

Brazil Export Performance: Shipments to Netherlands

• Total Volume: Brazil exported a total of $3.64B to the Netherlands in Q4 2023.
• Growth Trend & Context:
  • Exports showed mixed YoY growth: +7.01% in October, +57.5% in November, and +17.64% in December.
  • No specific trade news or policy changes were reported to explain these trends.
• Key Volatility: December saw a sharp -36.52% MoM drop after a strong +12.5% MoM rise in November.

Brazil Import Performance: Sourcing from Netherlands

• Total Volume: Brazil imported $630.94M from the Netherlands in Q4 2023.
• Growth Trend & Context:
  • Imports declined sharply YoY: -52.66% in October, -27.7% in November, and -49.09% in December.
• Key Volatility: November recorded the lowest monthly value ($173.54M, -29.04% MoM), while December rebounded slightly (+22.65% MoM).

Brazil - Netherlands Trade Balance & Market Dynamics

• Net Position: Brazil maintained a trade surplus of $3.01B (Exports: $3.64B vs. Imports: $630.94M).
• Relationship Status: Brazil is a net exporter to the Netherlands, with exports dwarfing imports by nearly 5.8x. The consistent surplus underscores strong outward trade dynamics.

Brazil Import Trend from Netherlands 2023 Q4 (Source: yTrade)**

Brazil Export Trend to Netherlands 2023 Q4 (Source: yTrade)**

Get Historical Brazil Netherlands Trade Records

Brazil-Netherlands Top Trading Products in Q4 2023

Brazil Export Profile: What Does Brazil Sell to Netherlands

• Top Commodity: Rank #1 export is HS Code 27 (Mineral fuels, oils) at 45.59% of total exports.
• Demand Driver: Netherlands uses these for industrial processing, likely refining or energy distribution.
• Concentration: Trade is highly concentrated, with HS Code 27 alone covering nearly half of exports.

Brazil Import Profile: What Does Brazil Buy from Netherlands

• Top Commodity: Rank #1 import is HS Code 27 (Mineral fuels, oils) at 40.25% of total imports.
• Dependency Nature: Energy security dependency, suggesting Brazil relies on Netherlands for refined petroleum products or specialized fuels.

Brazil - Netherlands Trade Relationship Dynamics

• The Exchange Model: Intra-Industry Trade in mineral fuels, indicating a two-way flow of similar products (likely crude vs. refined petroleum).
• Value Chain Position: Netherlands holds the higher value-add position, as Brazil exports raw materials (HS 26, 08) while importing processed fuels (HS 27).

Import Analysis by Product: Netherlands to Brazil (Source: yTrade)

Export Analysis by Product: Brazil to Netherlands (Source: yTrade)

Check Detailed Brazil-Netherlands Trade HS Code Breakdown

Future Outlook & Strategic Recommendations

Forecast for Brazil-Netherlands Trade

Brazil’s trade surplus with the Netherlands is expected to remain robust in 2024, driven by sustained demand for mineral fuels (HS 27) and raw materials. However, volatility in monthly export growth—particularly the sharp December 2023 drop—signals potential supply chain or pricing risks. The Netherlands’ refining capacity will likely keep imports of Brazilian crude stable, but Brazil must address its heavy reliance on processed fuel imports to reduce dependency. Traders should anticipate tighter margins in energy-related trade as global commodity markets fluctuate.

Strategic Moves for Exporters & Importers

• Diversify Export Composition: Brazil must reduce overreliance on HS 27 by promoting secondary exports like agriculture (HS 08) or manufactured goods to mitigate price volatility risks.
• Secure Long-Term Fuel Supply Agreements: Brazilian importers should lock in contracts with Dutch refiners to stabilize energy costs amid geopolitical and logistical uncertainties.
• Optimize Logistics for Intra-Industry Trade: Both nations should invest in port efficiency and shipping routes to streamline the two-way flow of mineral fuels, cutting delays and costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Brazil - Netherlands trade perform in 2023 Q4?

Brazil exported $3.64B to the Netherlands, showing mixed YoY growth, while imports fell sharply to $630.94M, resulting in a $3.01B trade surplus.

What are the top exports from Brazil to Netherlands?

The top export was HS Code 27 (Mineral fuels, oils), accounting for 45.59% of total exports, indicating a heavy reliance on energy-related products.

What does Brazil import from Netherlands?

Brazil primarily imported HS Code 27 (Mineral fuels, oils) from the Netherlands, making up 40.25% of total imports, reflecting a dependency on refined petroleum products.

What is the trade balance between Brazil and Netherlands?

Brazil maintained a trade surplus of $3.01B, with exports exceeding imports by nearly 5.8x, highlighting strong outward trade dynamics.