U.S. trade deficit in goods narrows as exports rise
Higher U.S. exports of goods and a fall in imports resulted in a narrower U.S. trade deficit in goods to $43.6 billion in November, down from $47.1 billion in October, according to the latest statistics of the U.S. Census Bureau.
Including services, the U.S. international deficit decreased to $38 billion in November, from $41.6 billion in October.
The value of goods exported by the U.S. increased to $63.8 billion in November, up from $61.6 billion in October. The Census Bureau said that the October to November increase in exports of goods reflected increases in capital goods ($1.7 billion); consumer goods ($600 million); and foods, feeds, and beverages ($400 million).
Imports of goods decreased to $107.4 billion in November, from $108.8 billion in October. The fall in imports of goods between October and November included lower amounts for industrial supplies and materials, consumer goods, and automotive vehicles, parts, and engines.
The U.S. goods deficit with China, which accounts for a quarter of the total trade deficit in goods, decreased from $13.6 billion in October to $10.8 billion in November. Exports increased $0.5 billion (primarily soybeans and raw cotton) to $3.3 billion, while imports decreased $2.3 billion (primarily toys, games, and sporting goods; other household goods; and apparel) to $14.1 billion.
The goods deficits with Japan and Mexico also decreased between October and November.