Greek exports rise spectacularly in last five years.

There are certain parameters that contributed positively to this upward course and have to do with a resurgence of the European economy until mid-2011, the extension of Greek presence in countries beyond the EU, and the improvement of competitiveness in terms of cost after 2010.

According to Infobank Hellastat, in 2013, Greek exports totaled 27.54 billion euros, slipping slightly for the first time in 4 years, relative to last year's record high, as many countries with commercial ties to Greece suffered from recession.

Exports to non-EU countries stood at 14.76 billion euros, dropping by 4.2% year on year. In contrast exports to the EU totaled 12.79 billion euros, showing an increase of 4.9% as against 2012, after a slight drop the year before.

Non-EU markets absorb 53.6% of Greek exports. This stood at 42.2% four years ago. In contrast EU markets absorbed 46.4% in 2013, from 57.8%in 2009.

There is an overall increase in exports to Turkey, totaling 3.2 billion euros in 2013, rising 8.6% year on year, which is 11.6% of total exports. The first five export destinations are completed with Italy (8.9%), Germany (6.5%), Bulgaria (5.3%) and Cyprus (4.4%).

Fossil fuels accounted for 39.5% of total exports, or 10.89 billion euros, in 2013, up by 2.2% year on year, and up 208% since 2009, because of rising prices and increased volume. Aluminum exports came to 4.4% of total, followed by pharmaceuticals (3.8%).

If fuel exports are excluded agricultural produce makes up 29% of total exports.