Canada recorded a ninth consecutive monthly trade deficit in November, albeit smaller than expected, as exports rose faster than imports, and its trade surplus with the United States widened, data showed on Tuesday.

Canada’s trade surplus with the US widened as did its deficit with the rest of the world, underscoring the major role its biggest trading partner and southern neighbor plays in its economy.

Canada recorded a ninth consecutive monthly trade deficit in November, albeit a smaller than expected shortfall as exports rose faster than imports, data showed on Tuesday. Total exports rose 2.2% in November,