It would seem that the trading in the 'core' worlds has been nerfed to a certain extent. Seems to be a lot more healthy the further out you go.

My big problem just now is trying to find a surface scanner. I 'upgraded' (not sure that word is really applicable here) to a hauler, bought a new hyperdrive to increase my range but have just travelled to a bout 10 different systems looking for the scanner with no luck. I don't know whether or not there simply isn't one for the Hauler. If that's the case I might go back to the Sidey again.