Official data indicate that the value of Brazilian exports rose to nearly US$21.3 billion last month, up 10 percent from US$19.3 billion a year earlier.

Figures published by the Brazilian government show annual growth last month despite a fall in the value of exports to Argentina and China, the two main markets for Brazilian exports.

The figures show the value of Brazilian imports rose to about US$15 billion last month, 12.9 percent higher from US$13.3 billion a year earlier.

In the first five months of this year Brazilian exports were worth US$92.8 billion, 0.9 percent less than in the corresponding period last year, while Brazilian imports were worth US$70.7 billion, 1.8 percent more, the government data indicate.