In April 2025, the U.S. trade deficit fell to its lowest level since October 2021, reaching $68.9 billion — a $6.9 billion decrease from March. This shift was driven by the largest recorded decline in goods imports into the country, reports Baltimore Chronicle with reference to Bloomberg.
According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, the value of goods imports dropped by $8.6 billion to $265.7 billion. This marks the steepest monthly decline since the department began collecting such data in 1992. The most significant reductions were seen in consumer goods (down $3.7 billion) and automotive products (down $1.6 billion).
At the same time, U.S. goods exports also declined slightly — by $1.6 billion to $197.2 billion. The largest decrease was in industrial supplies, particularly chemical products.
Overall, U.S. international trade volume declined by 1.5% in April. This may partially reflect reduced domestic demand for goods, as well as the broader impact of global economic fluctuations.
Changes in the U.S. trade balance could influence GDP growth estimates for the second quarter. Analysts expect that if the trend of falling imports continues, trade will make a stronger positive contribution to overall economic output.
Earlier we wrote that oil prices climb on hopes of US-China trade easing.