Skip to content
Business Editorial

US Trade Deficit Jumps 42.2% to $77.6 Billion in May

US Trade Deficit Jumps 42.2% to $77.6 Billion in May
Kanika Sharma
Geopolitical Analyst & Editor
Published: Updated: 2 min read
AdvertisementAdvertisement

The U.S. international trade deficit in goods and services widened to $77.6 billion in May 2026, up $23.0 billion from the revised $54.6 billion recorded in April. During the month, exports fell 3.2% to $317.7 billion, while imports rose 3.3% to $395.3 billion.

US Trade Deficit Jumps 42.2% to .6 Billion in May

May exports declined by $10.5 billion from April, while imports increased by $12.5 billion. The wider trade deficit reflected a $23.6 billion increase in the goods deficit to $106.5 billion, partly offset by a $0.6 billion rise in the services surplus to $28.9 billion. So far in 2026, the goods and services deficit has decreased $203.9 billion, or 40.6%, compared with the same period in 2025. Exports have increased $164.7 billion (11.7%), while imports have decreased $39.2 billion (2.1%).

The three-month average trade deficit increased $7.5 billion to $62.9 billion for the period ending in May. Average exports rose $2.0 billion to $321.5 billion, while average imports increased $9.5 billion to $384.5 billion. Compared with the three months ending in May 2025, the average trade deficit was $23.8 billion lower, with average exports up $36.1 billion and average imports up $12.4 billion.

Goods exports fell $11.3 billion to $210.6 billion, led by declines in industrial supplies and materials ($5.5 billion), capital goods ($3.5 billion) and consumer goods ($2.1 billion). However, services exports increased $0.8 billion to $107.1 billion. On the import side, goods imports rose $12.3 billion to $317.0 billion, driven by higher imports of consumer goods ($3.5 billion), industrial supplies and materials ($3.1 billion), automotive vehicles, parts and engines ($2.2 billion) and capital goods ($1.1 billion). Services imports increased $0.2 billion to $78.2 billion.

In inflation-adjusted terms, the real goods deficit increased $15.8 billion, or 18.7%, to $100.0 billion in May. The United States recorded its largest trade deficits with Vietnam ($20.6 billion), Mexico ($20.1 billion), Taiwan ($19.4 billion), China ($14.5 billion), the European Union ($9.3 billion), Canada ($7.0 billion), Germany ($5.7 billion), Malaysia ($4.7 billion), South Korea ($4.4 billion) and India ($4.1 billion). The next U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services report, covering June 2026, will be released on August 4, 2026.

🚀
⚡ Prime
Enjoy an Ad-Free Reading Experience
Plus 100+ screener conditions, historical signal analysis, DIY stock screening, FII/DII data & more.
Join Prime →
Kanika Sharma
Geopolitical Analyst & Editor

Kanika Sharma

Kanika Sharma is a Geopolitical Analyst and Editor at BigBreakingWire. She holds a Master's degree in History from the Central University of Punjab, with an academic background in qualitative research, text analysis, and historical frameworks. At BigBreakingWire, she analyzes global trade shifts, international policies, geopolitical developments, semiconductor supply chains, manufacturing policies, and sovereign industrial initiatives. Her work combines historical context with contemporary policy and macroeconomic analysis to explain complex global developments clearly and accurately.

Last reviewed by Kanika Sharma on August 26, 2026

Disclaimer: BigBreakingWire provides news and informational content for general educational purposes only. The information presented on this website does not constitute financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Readers should consult qualified professionals before making any financial decisions. BigBreakingWire, its authors, and editors are not responsible for any financial losses or damages arising from the use of information on this site.

Discussion

Share your take — react and comment in seconds, no login needed.

0 comments

Loading discussion…

Be civil — abusive or promotional comments get removed. No login required.

⚡ Upgrade to Prime
The Market Terminal for Serious Investors
🚫 Ad-Free Experience📊 100+ Screener Conditions🔬 Historical Signals📈 DIY Stock Screening🏦 FII/DII Data
Join BigBreakingWire Prime →