Statistics Canada reports $1.1-billion merchandise trade deficit for July

OTTAWA -- Statistics Canada says the country posted a merchandise trade deficit of $1.1 billion in July compared with a revised deficit of $55 million June. Economists had expected a deficit of $400 million, according to financial markets data firm Refinitiv. The result for June was updated from what was originally reported as a $136-million surplus. Statistics Canada says imports rose 1.2 per cent to $50.9 billion in July, with gains in six of 11 sectors. Imports of consumer goods were up 2.4 p