Vienna - The global economic downturn has taken a major effect on Austria's external trade sector, as exports dropped by 25.2 per cent in January year-on-year, according to official data released on Friday.

Exports amounted to 7.2 billion euros (9.6 billion dollars), while imports fell by 17.7 per cent to 7.8 billion euros, Austria's statistical office said.

In 2008, Austrian trade had still developed positively. Exports rose by 2.3 per cent to 117.3 billion euros, while imports were up 4.3 per cent at 119.1 billion euros.

Foreign sales of machines and vehicles, the country's most important export products, have been severely hit in recent months. In the fourth quarter of last year exports dropped by 14 per cent for these products, which include car parts. (dpa)