Statistics Canada has announced a delay in releasing the international trade figures for September due to the U.S. government shutdown. The agency depends on data from the U.S. Census Bureau to monitor Canadian export levels. However, no information has been received since the shutdown began in early October.
Consequently, Statistics Canada will not be able to disclose the Canadian export and import data for September on the scheduled date of November 4. The agency stated that until the U.S. government shutdown concludes, monthly international trade reports cannot be provided. If the disruption persists for an extended period, alternative approaches may need to be considered.
Crucial indicators like quarterly gross domestic product (GDP) and international payment balances are influenced by the monthly trade data. In the event that the shutdown extends beyond the deadline for publishing the third-quarter GDP data at the end of November, Statistics Canada plans to create special estimates for Canadian exports to the U.S. However, the agency cautioned that these projections may undergo more significant revisions than usual.