overview friday march 26 1999 continued on page 2 exports have a strong start this year fter having remained stable for two months to grow in january 1 attaining value of 28 9 billion the united states particular their rapid growth 5 thanks robust american economy low interest rates and lowest rate unemployment years following significant increase marked decline imports trade balance went from 6 revised december 7 highest level reached since february 1997 most sectors registered an but machinery equipment sector contributed overall given numerous international sales contracts awarded canadian manufacturers there were shipments new aircraft helicopters europe increased television telecommunications recovery computers other tools also played part u due notable