Real gross domestic product (GDP) expanded 0.6% in the first quarter, the fastest pace in six quarters, bolstered by a 1.5% increase in exports. On a monthly basis, real GDP by industry grew 0.2% in March. Exports were the largest contributor to growth in the quarter. Export volumes increased 1.5%, after a gain of 0.2% in the fourth quarter of 2012 and declines in the previous three quarters. Imports were up slightly by 0.3%, after falling 0.8% in the previous quarter. Final domestic demand edged up 0.1%, the weakest showing since the first quarter of 2009. Consumer spending was up 0.2%, sustained by higher spending ... (full story)