The Canadian economy grew at an annual rate of 4.3% between April and June, up from the 3% rate seen in the first three months of the year.

In the same quarter, the U.S. economy grew at an annualized rate of 2.8%.

Statistics Canada said today the economy was boosted by a surge in exports that spurred manufacturing, wholesaling, and rail and truck transportation.

Between the first and second quarters, the economy expanded by 1.1%.

Exports of goods and services advanced 5% in the second quarter, the strongest gain in more than seven years, StatsCan said.

The automotive products, machinery and equipment, and industrial goods and materials sectors grew strongly. Forestry products exports posted the strongest gain – 5.5% – in nearly eight years, stimulated by the US housing boom.

“The surge in exports spurred a 1.6% increase in manufacturing in the second quarter,” the government agency said. “The gains were widespread as 17 of the 21 major manufacturing groups reported higher output.”

Consumer spending slowed to 0.3% in the second quarter, following a strong first quarter, and after averaging 0.8% per quarter in the past two years. Spending on services, durable and semi-durable goods all slowed considerably, StatsCan reported.