Canada Faces Unexpected Trade Deficit Surge in January

Canada's trade deficit widened significantly in January, reaching C$3.65 billion. The decline was driven by a sharp fall in exports, notably motor vehicle parts, amid slowed production. Overall exports dropped 4.7%, with significant reductions in international trade, particularly with the U.S., Canada's primary trading partner.

Canada's trade deficit expanded unexpectedly in January, with the shortfall reaching C$3.65 billion compared to December's C$1.3 billion deficit, according to data from Statistics Canada.

The decline was primarily driven by a significant drop in exports, including motor vehicles and parts, which saw its steepest decline since September 2021 due to production stoppages.

The U.S., accounting for 68% of Canada's exports, played a major role in the downturn as exports to and imports from the U.S. fell, shrinking the bilateral trade surplus.

(With inputs from agencies.)