Exports were worth £103.8 million and, although this is lower than the figure for the final quarter of 2010, it is +25% higher than the equivalent period in 2009, which is probably the more valid comparison, as there is some seasonality in the trade figures, says the MTA.

Imports of machine tools were valued at £94.5 million, an increase of +33% compared to the start of 2009, although, again, this was down on the end of last year.

The positive trade balance of £9.4 million is, however, concentrated in metalforming machines, with a small deficit being recorded for metal cutting machines.

Looking at the major machine categories, there was a trade surplus for grinding machines, presses and bending machines, with deficits for machining centres, lathes and sawing machines, reports the MTA.