In a reverse of the usual trend, freight container exports from Europe increased in February, while imports from Asia were down by 37% compared with January, and 11.9% down on the previous year. Sea Freight rates from Asia to Europe continued to decline for the eighth consecutive month. Imports from India and the Middle East declined from the previous month, but increased 9% year on year. Exports to these markets also increased, showing the growing importance of India as an export market for Europe.