German exports recorded a surprise increase in September despite the global economic slowdown, official figures showed Friday. The Federal Statistics Office said exports rose 6.9 per cent to 87.1 billion euros (112 billion dollars) in September compared to the corresponding month of 2007.
Imports climbed 14.1 per cent in the same period to 72.2 billion euros, to give the world's biggest exporter a trade surplus of 15 billion euros, the figures showed.
The current account balance, which takes into account transfers and services as well as exports and imports, also recorded a surplus of 15 billion euros.
Exports of German goods to countries in the European increased 6.2 per cent to 55.5 billion euros, while sales to nations outside the EU were up 8.2 per cent to 31.6 billion euros.
Shares fell 2.1 per cent Friday on the Seoul stock exchange on general recession fears. South Korea's won dropped against the dollar.
When the Spirit rover landed on Mars five years ago, no one expected it or its sister rover Opportunity to make it to their first birthdays, let alone their fifth.
Amelie Mauresmo fell victim to a leg injury after less than half an hour on court Friday to hand over a 4-0 victory which put French compatriot Marion Bartoli into the final of the Brisbane International.
Mumbai-based movie Slumdog Millionaire won five prizes Thursday night at the Critics Choice Awards, cementing its position as a surprise favourite just as the Oscar season moves into high gear.
After the Taipei Zoo received two giant pandas from China, another Taiwan zoo said Friday it is seeking to receive a pair of pandas from China.