Finnish exports experienced a significant decrease of 30 percent in March compared to the same time last year, according to the Central Chamber of Commerce. This drop was attributed to four week-long political strikes that hindered export activities during the month. The Chamber relied on export document statistics to make this assessment.
The figures for March showed a stark contrast to the previous year, with a decrease in the number of certificates of origin issued for exports. While almost 4,800 certificates were issued in March of last year, only just over 3,300 were issued this year. Chambers of commerce issue these certificates to companies exporting goods outside the EU and EEA countries.
Juho Romakkaniemi, CEO of Keskuskauppakamari, expressed concern over the impact of the strikes on Finnish exports, stating that they had a significant negative effect. Despite promising growth in exports during January and February, the strikes severely hampered progress and set back the momentum that had been building.
Romakkaniemi highlighted that the aftermath of the strikes was still being felt in the ports, causing delays and disruptions that would take time to resolve. As a result, it was expected that it would take a while for exports to reach their full capacity again. This setback comes at a time when Finland’s economy is in need of growth and stability.
