According to Statistics Canada, the country's merchandise trade surplus widened to $3.9 billion in June, up from a revised $3.1 billion in May. The increase was driven by higher exports of energy products and consumer goods.
Exports rose 2.3% to $64.8 billion, while imports increased 1.1% to $60.9 billion. The surplus with the United States, Canada's largest trading partner, grew to $10.1 billion.
Economists had expected a surplus of around $3.0 billion, according to Reuters. The stronger-than-expected trade data may influence the Bank of Canada's interest rate decisions.
In volume terms, exports increased 1.8% and imports rose 0.9%, indicating solid trade activity in the second quarter.
