Britain suffered a global goods trade deficit of 7.7 billion pounds in the first quarter of this year - the worst figure since records began in 1697.
National Statistics said the global trade deficit came in at 2.9 billion pounds, in line with expectations, but up sharply from a 2.3 billion pounds shortfall in February.
Stripping out oil and erratic items, there was a monthly goods trade deficit of 3.36 billion pounds in March as exports were hit by the US economic slowdown.
The figures for the first quarter of 2001 showed strong demand for imported consumer goods, particularly cars, which may raise concern about booming domestic demand.
NS warned the monthly deficit in goods - which Britain has suffered since 1984 - was still widening. Britain last enjoyed an overall trade surplus for the year in 1997 thanks to a strong contribution from the country's large services sector.