AUSSIE MINISTER HAILS TRADE SURPLUS

MELBOURNE, Nov 4 (Bernama) -- Australia's Trade Minister, Craig Emerson, has
welcomed Australia's trade surplus of almost A$1.8 billion (A$1=RM3.05) in
September as a continuing sign of the underlying strength of the economy.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics said the trade surplus narrowed by A$686
million to A$1.76 billion in September, from A$2.446 billion in August.

Dr Emerson said it was the sixth consecutive monthly trade surplus but also
acknowledged the difficulties faced by exporters.

"Australian exporters are facing challenging times as the Australian dollar
strengthens," he said in a statement.

"The Gillard government is making sure we continue to have an open,
competitive economy and we are removing impediments to the expansion of exports for
all sectors," he said.
-- BERNAMA