MNI BRIEF: StatsCan Says US Shutdown Could Delay Trade Reports

Canada's statistics agency said Tuesday that any U.S. government shutdown could delay the publication of merchandise trade statistics such as the monthly trade balance.

The two countries share each other's import data to produce trade statistics, the Ottawa-based agency said in a technical note alongside its regular monthly publication. "A prolonged shutdown could lead to a postponement of the publication of Canadian International Merchandise Trade statistics. Statistics Canada is closely monitoring this situation and will provide further information on potential impacts to its statistical programs as needed," the agency said. Congressional leaders may need to negotiate new spending plans to avoid a shutdown starting Nov. 18. (See: MNI INTERVIEW: Productivity Curbs BOC Cut Enthusiasm-Ex Adviser)