Import / Export Price Indexes

LABSTAT contains merchandise import and export index time series based on several classification systems and selected import and export services indexes. Full coverage of merchandise imports began in February 1983 and full coverage of merchandise exports began in 1984. Prior to 1974, data was collected in June only. From 1974 through 1992, all data was published quarterly. Beginning in 1993, two-digit price data is available on a monthly basis through the International Price Index press release, while more detailed information is available through supplemental tables.

Indexes and percentage changes are calculated to one decimal place. Monthly data may be revised in each of the three months after original publication.

References: BLS Handbook of Methods, Chapter 17, "International price indexes", Bulletin 2490 (1997). "Comparisons of United States, German, and Japanese Export Price Indexes", BLS Bulletin 2046 (1980).