Meanwhile, Canadian direct investment abroad rose 2.8% to $2.4 trillion
Statistics Canada says sales were up in seven of nine subsectors
Raw material, producer prices rise sharply due to energy products
Gas price saw largest monthly increase on record in March
Short-term impact not likely to affect the BoC's next rate decision on April 29
The net worth of the top 20% averaged $3.5 million per household
Total imports rose 8.4% to a record $72.1B in the month
Real GDP edged 0.1% higher in January
Labour market stabilizes, but recovery prospects remain shaky: NBF
Sales rose in six of nine subsectors, led by motor vehicle and parts dealers