Australia’s export sector swung sharply lower in March 2026, with exports falling 2.7% month-over-month, according to data updated on 7 May 2026. The decline marks a notable reversal from February 2026, when exports had expanded by 4.2% compared with January.
The month-over-month comparison shows that the strong growth momentum seen in February did not carry through into March. While February’s 4.2% rise indicated robust external demand or favorable trading conditions, the 2.7% contraction in March suggests a cooling in export activity within a single month. This shift will be closely watched by market participants and policymakers as they assess the resilience of Australia’s trade performance heading into the second quarter of 2026.
