South African stocks opened firmer on Monday morning led by resources and markets in Asia, which were boosted by upbeat trade data from China.

At 09:20 the JSE all share index had added 0.70 percent, with resources up 1.44 percent, gold producers 1.40 percent higher and platinum miners moving 2.65 percent firmer.

Banks and financials were both flat, up 0.05 percent, and industrials put on 0.28 percent.

The rand was bid at 7.29 to the dollar from 7.34 when the JSE closed on Friday. Gold was quoted at $1154.80 a troy ounce from $1132.35 at the JSE's last close, and platinum was at $1572.50 an ounce, from $1560.50 the bourse's previous close.

A local trader said: "Momentum this morning comes from higher commodity prices, with resources leading the way, and higher eastern markets.

"Resources was the best performing sector in 2009 and shows no signs of abating even though a few stocks look over priced.

"China is still growing at a rapid pace, with good trade data out there. There is no further economic data expected today so lets wait and see how other international markets perform."

Dow Jones Newswires reports that European stocks are expected to open up Monday, following the positive session in Asia, which is boosted by upbeat trade data from China.

Ben Potter at IG Markets called London's FTSE 100 up 34 points at 5568.0.

Potter also noted the stronger price of gold following the weaker dollar, which may help some mining stocks. He warned though that markets looked 'toppy' and there could be a temptation to take money off the table.

There are no economic data points of note, it said.