European Stars And Stripes (Newspaper) - June 10, 1988, Darmstadt, Hesse                                7 Page the stars and stripes Friday. June 10,1988 March deficit up with seasonal and us Menf Washington a the Mer Chandise Trade deficit for March was is 1.9 billion on a seasonally adjusted basis 22 percent higher than previously reported. The Commerce department thurs Day released new Trade figures which for the first time in two years adjusted the monthly numbers Tor Normal sea Sonal changes in shipping patterns. A month ago. The government had reported that the track deficit was at s9.7 billion its Best showing in three years however analysts cautioned at the Lime that Trade figures often improve in March because it is a Good month for . Export sales. A february deficit which had Origi Nally been reported at $13.8 billion was raised to s14.4 billion. The january deficit originally reported us s12.4 billion was lowered by the seasonal adjustment a 11,3billion. The april Trade deficit is scheduled to be reported tuesday and in will be re ported on a seasonally adjusted basis Al though the government will continue to release the unadjusted figures As Well. Government statisticians Hope that by seasonally adjusting the Trade figures the will be Able to smooth out some of the volatility which has often roiled financial markets around the world. The . Trade deficit has become the most closely watched government statistic especially on foreign Exchange markets. A bad Trade figure can trigger a wave of Dollar Selling which then de presses Stock prices As investors be come worried about . Economic prospects. Despite the revised figures. White House spokesman Marla. Fitio