The latest statistics, published by the World Trade Organisation show that in 2012 South Africa ranked 32nd globally in merchandise imports and 22nd excluding intra- European Union (EU) trade. The country holds a ranking of 44 in imports of commercial services, with a ranking of 30 excluding intra-EU trade. South Africa’s top 5 international import source countries, accord ing to the WTO, ar e : · European Union – 28.6% · China – 14.4% · Saudi Arabia – 7.7% · United States – 7.3% · Japan – 4. 5%