In August, the Nation’s international trade deficit increased to $38.8 billion from $38.6 billion in July (revised), as imports increased and exports declined.  Imports increased slightly to $228.0 billion, primarily due to increases in capital goods ($1.0 billion).  Exports decreased $0.1 billion to $189.2 billion, driven by decreases in industrial supplies and materials ($1.3 billion) and foods, feeds, and beverages ($0.4 billion).  A $0.7 billion increase in automotive vehicles, parts, and engines exports helped set a record high for automotive exports ($13.1 billion).  August also topped highest on record exports ($56.8 billion) and imports ($37.4 billion) of services set last month.

Earlier this week the U.S. Census Bureau announced revisions to its release calendar for the 2013 economic indicators that have been delayed because of the recent lapse in federal funding.  This will delay our September 2013 data release originally scheduled for Tuesday, November 5^th to Thursday, November 14^th.  The data will still release at 8:30 A.M.  Furthermore, this will delay our September Preliminary Steel report from October 24^th to October 31^st.  We will return to our previously announced schedule with the October release scheduled for December 4^th.  For a full listing of indicator schedule changes visit our website.