The US trade deficit slipped modestly in 2025, a year in which President Trump upended global commerce by slapping double digit tariffs on imports from most countries. But the gap in the trade of goods such machinery and aircraft — the main focus of Trump’s protectionist policies — hit a record last year despite sweeping import taxes.

The US trade deficit was largely unchanged in 2025 despite President Donald Trump's claims that his sweeping tariffs would rapidly shrink the gap.The annual trade deficit in 2025 totaled $901.5 billion,

Trade with China remains a major driver of the US deficit, even as imports shift towards Southeast Asia and other partners.

Trade deficits were volatile throughout 2025 as importers responded to President Trump's shifting tariff announcements.