Canadian trade deficit widens in March

Canada's trade deficit widened from 2.5 billion Canadian dollars (1.9 billion U.S. dollars) in February to 3.4 billion Canadian dollars (2.6 billion U.S. dollars) in March, according to figures released by Statistics Canada on Wednesday.

The country's exports fell 4.8 percent to 41.0 billion Canadian dollars (32 billion U.S. dollars) in March, while imports dipped 2.4 percent to 44.4 billion Canadian dollars (34.6 billion U.S. dollars).

Exports decreased in 10 of 11 sectors, led by motor vehicles and parts, consumer goods, and metal and non-metallic mineral products. Exports excluding energy products declined 4.8 percent.

Canada's total exports decreased 1.3 percent in the first quarter of 2016.

Meanwhile, the country's imports lowered in 8 of 11 sectors. Lower imports of consumer goods and aircraft and other transportation equipment and parts were partially offset by higher imports of energy products.

Canada's imports of consumer goods fell 4.6 percent to 9.9 billion Canadian dollars (7.7 billion U.S. dollars). Widespread decreases throughout the sector were led by miscellaneous goods and supplies, furniture and fixtures, and clothing, footwear and accessories.

Total imports edged down 0.1 percent in the first quarter of 2016.