GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 18, 2026

Trade Flow Statistics

An importer receives a consignment from three different countries—different commodity types, volumes, values, and transport routes.

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Last updated: 18 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://unstats.un.org/unsd/trade/glossary/

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Definition & Explanation

An importer receives a consignment from three different countries—different commodity types, volumes, values, and transport routes. Trade flow statistics systematically record exactly these cross-border movements: by volume, value, direction, transport mode, origin, and destination. They underpin national trade balances, tariff analysis, and the identification of economic hotspots. Governments, industry associations, and businesses draw on this data to detect market shifts early, assess trade agreements, and fine-tune logistics corridors. Where general trade statistics answer 'how much?', trade flow statistics answer the more specific questions of 'where to?' and 'how?' – making them particularly valuable for network planning and freight forecasting.

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Trade Flow Statistics

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Related Terms

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trade flow analysis

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