Because the import number was inflated by commodity purchases, imports of consumer goods must have been stagnant, and there are some indications that domestic demand is indeed flat.

FORBES: China's Abnormal Trade Numbers for November

Lower oil and commodity prices ought to benefit China and India, by lowering import bills and assuaging worries about inflation.

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Brazil has been forced to import more liquefied natural gas (LNG), paying a premium for the commodity, whose prices have soared in international markets.

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Some analysts said the import number indicated vibrant domestic demand, yet the big jump in imports was largely due to commodity purchases.

FORBES: China's Abnormal Trade Numbers for November

Lower commodity prices means lower costs for important resources like oil and sugar, and therefore lower import costs for China and India, both battling with high inflation.

FORBES: Connect