The almost steady decline in small business optimism seen through 2015 has stayed on trend for the first month of 2016. The Business Barometer® Index reached a new post-recession low of 54.3 in January—about 10 points below the level associated with normal economic growth.
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Business Barometer: Falling dollar, oil prices, send business confidence to post-recession low
February 26, 2016
Canadian Exports: Where’s the Momentum?
February 26, 2016
In all the turbulence swirling around us, a moment of bliss. Canada’s merchandise exports ended a volatile 2015 with a 3.9 per cent monthly surge that cut the trade deficit by almost two-thirds. The December gift came in spite of widespread fears that Canada’s trade stats would continue to disappoint, treading gingerly into the New Year’s financial market maelstrom.
Carbon and Alloy Steel Line Pipe, Inquiry No. NQ-2015-002
February 21, 2016
IN THE MATTER OF an inquiry, pursuant to section 42 of the Special Import Measures Act, respecting the dumping and subsidizing of carbon and alloy steel line pipe originating in or exported from the People’s Republic of China;
Swoony Loonie: More in Store?
February 21, 2016
Hey, pull the ripcord already! The Canadian dollar is plunging to earth at a faster rate than it ever has. If last year’s descent wasn’t enough, it resumed early in 2016, sinking to lows that were unthinkable just two years ago. Even last year’s low-loonie beneficiaries are alarmed, wondering along with everyone else about their relative wealth and the inflated price of their winter escape.
Importation of Fresh Fruit and Vegetables with Sulphites
February 17, 2016
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is reminding importers that fresh fruit and vegetables intended to be consumed raw and that are treated with sulphites are not permitted for sale in Canada. Only grapes are exempt from this restriction.