Statistics Canada reported that real GDP grew by 0.2% in July, following minimal change in June, driven by the retail trade sector.
Services-producing industries grew by 0.2%, with retail trade contributing the most to overall growth, rising 1%, thanks to a 2.8% increase in motor vehicles and parts dealers.
The public sector grew by 0.3%, while the finance and insurance sector rose 0.5%.
Goods-producing industries saw a modest 0.1% gain, with utilities up 1.3% and manufacturing up 0.3%.
Early estimates for August suggest GDP remained flat, with gains in oil and gas extraction and the public sector offset by declines in manufacturing and transportation.