At the same time, imports, particularly from Japan, continue to gain market share.

Economists say that imports will probably continue to rise so long as the economy expands at a healthy clip.

Exports were essentially unchanged, while imports continued to grow.

The imports continued to gain in the car market, with their share rising to 28.3 percent, from 26 percent last February.

"As domestic growth continues, imports will also continue to grow, though slower than exports."

With less focus on domestic exploration, imports will continue to rise because oil wells do not pump forever.

Trade provided the biggest surprise, when exports fell unexpectedly and imports continued growing, subtracting half a percentage point from economic growth, according to the report.

Thus, imports will continue to rise, experts said, even if, as in 1989, demand for oil does not increase.

The falling dollar has done nothing to diminish America's appetite for foreign goods - such imports continue to rise at a faster rate than exports.

Ministry officials said imports continued to rise sharply in the month.