Australia recorded a seasonally adjusted trade surplus of $1.8 billion in September 2010, according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Trade Minister Craig Emerson welcomed the September data as a continuing sign of the underlying strength of the Australian economy.

"It is the 6th consecutive monthly trade surplus – and only the 4th time in 40 years Australia has had six or more surpluses in a row," Dr Emerson said.

However, Dr Emerson acknowledged the difficulties faced by exporters.

The September trade surplus narrowed 28 per cent on the revised surplus in August 2010. It was in line with market expectations of around $1.9 billion.

Overall, exports of goods and services fell two per cent to $24.2 billion, while imports rose by one per cent to $22.4 billion.

In September, coal exports fell by $216 million, gas and petroleum exports decreased by $243 million, while non-monetary gold exports increased by $306 million.

"Australian exporters are facing challenging times as the Australian dollar strengthens," Dr Emerson said.

"The Gillard Government is making sure we continue to have an open, competitive economy and we are removing impediments to the expansion of exports for all sectors."