OTTAWA—After U.S. printing exports sank to $56.3 million in December 2009, their lowest level in recent memory, they turned in month-over-month increases in January, February and March. Exports in March were $66.2 million.

Also striking a positive note was our printing trade balance. The deficit receded to $41.2 million for the first three months of the year from $60.2 million during the same period in 2009.

Imports from the U.S. declined in January and February but rallied back in March to $70.7 million. Imports from China are holding steady at the $17 million mark.

Exports	2010	2009
March	$83.8 million	$90.7 million
Year-to-date	$228.9 million	$262.3 million

Imports	2010	2009
March	$102 million	$116.5 million
Year-to-date	$270.1 million	$322.5 million