The U.S. Trade deficit increased in December, concluding a year marked by a largely unchanged imbalance despite the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce it. The December shortfall totaled $70.3 billion, according to the Commerce Department, a rise of $17.3 billion from November.
Trade Deficit in 2025
For the full year 2025, the U.S. Trade deficit reached $901.5 billion. This figure represents a slight decrease of 0.2%, or $2.1 billion, compared to 2024, but remains below the record $923.7 billion shortfall recorded in 2022.
Throughout the year, President Trump implemented tariffs intended to address trade imbalances. However, many of these positions were later adjusted and negotiations with trading partners continued. Companies responded to the potential tariffs by accelerating imports during the first three months of the year, a trend that lessened later in the year, with October seeing the lowest monthly deficit since 2009.
The largest U.S. Goods deficits were with the European Union ($218.8 billion), China ($202.1 billion), and Mexico ($196.9 billion). U.S. Exports totaled $3.43 trillion for 2025, an increase of $199.8 billion from the previous year. Imports too rose, reaching $4.33 trillion, up $197.8 billion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the U.S. Trade deficit in December?
The U.S. Trade deficit in December totaled $70.3 billion, an increase of $17.3 billion from November.
With which countries did the U.S. Have its largest trade deficits?
The U.S. Had its largest goods deficits with the European Union ($218.8 billion), China ($202.1 billion), and Mexico ($196.9 billion).
Did U.S. Exports or imports increase more in 2025?
Imports increased by $197.8 billion, although exports increased by $199.8 billion.
As trade negotiations continue and global economic conditions evolve, what impact might future tariff adjustments have on the U.S. Trade balance?
