Exports are again slipping after having witnessed signs of recovery early this month.

The Korea Customs Service on Tuesday estimated that between June first and the 20th, exports amounted to roughly 25-point-seven billion U.S. dollars, down 12-point-eight percent compared to the same period last year.

Exports have been falling for 17 straight months since January of last year, marking the longest period of declines since monthly export statistics began to be compiled in 1970.

The customs agency assessed that the drop in exports of integrated circuits resulting from China’s low-priced products drove down overall exports.

Between June first and the 20th, exports of integrated circuits shrank nine-point-one percent compared to a year ago. In particular, such exports to Vietnam plunged nearly 45 percent and to Hong Kong roughly 34 percent.