Washington (United States) (AFP) - The US trade deficit widened to a new record in 2025, government data showed on Thursday, despite widespread tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.

First modification: 02/19/2026 - 16:05

The U.S. goods deficit stood at $1.24 trillion last year, up slightly from the 2024 level, the Commerce Department reported.

However, the goods trade deficit with China was reduced over the year, according to the data.

When considering both goods and services, the total US trade deficit in 2025 fell to $901.5 billion, from $903.5 billion in 2024.

In the month of December, the total deficit increased more than expected, 32.6%, to 70.3 billion dollars, due to the fall in exports and the increase in imports.

Exports of industrial supplies, including non-monetary gold, decreased, while imports in the same category increased in the month.

U.S. imports of capital goods, such as computer accessories and telecommunications equipment, rebounded in December.

Trade flows in the world's largest economy were hit hard in 2025, when Trump imposed new tariffs on goods from virtually all trading partners as part of his efforts to reduce the trade deficit.

His measures brought the average effective tariff to its highest level since the 1930s.

The deficit reduction with China also came after Trump entered into a retaliatory tariff escalation with Beijing last year, although both countries have since eased tensions.

© 2026 AFP

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