Firm Level Patterns in Merchandise Trade

In this paper we examine patterns of merchandise exporting at both the firm level (1996-2005) and the product level (1988-2005). The presentation is descriptive, and is intended to frame future analysis of the determinants and impact of observed trading behaviour. There are two main points of focus: the degree of concentration in export products, partners, and firms; and the dynamics of trade relationship entry and exit, where trade relationships can be defined according to the product, country or firm concerned, or a combination of the three. The main contribution is the development of a decomposition of export value growth into that coming from new entries, exits and continuing exporters and export relationships. Future work will examine the causal relationships underlying observed patterns of export market entry and exit, and the impact that these dynamics have on firm performance.