Statistics Canada says the country's trade deficit with the world rose to $793 million in May from $623 million in April.

Imports increased 0.4 per cent to $39.7 billion in May, on the strength of energy products.

Meanwhile, exports held steady at $38.9 billion as increased volumes offset price decreases.

Imports from the United States rose 1.8 per cent to $25 billion and exports to the U.S. edged up 0.2 per cent to $28.2 billion after four consecutive monthly decreases.

The trade surplus with the United States slipped to $3.2 billion in May from $3.6 billion in April.

Imports from other countries declined 1.9 per cent to $14.7 billion while exports were down 0.7 per cent to $10.7 billion, meaning the trade deficit with the rest of the world narrowed to $4 billion from $4.2 billion in April.