In numbers: the US trade deficit reaches a record level in 2025

The American trade deficit

Trump justified these duties primarily by restoring balance to trade exchanges between Washington and its main partners, with a special focus, in addition to China, on countries such as Canada and Mexico, as well as the European Union.

The value of imports of goods rose to 3,438 trillion dollars during 2025, and imports of services 895 billion.

Exports recorded an increase, but at lower rates, and stabilized at $2.197 trillion for goods and $1.235 trillion for services.

In December, the deficit in the trade balance of goods and services accelerated to reach $70.3 billion, an increase of 32.6% compared to November.

This exceeded expectations that suggested a trade deficit in the range 56 billion dollars in December.

Decrease in exports and rise in imports

The widening of the deficit in the last month of last year is explained by a decline in exports and an increase in imports, mainly due to a decline in exports of non-monetary gold, and an increase in imports of raw materials, metals, and energy, as well as investment goods.

On the geographical level, the United States records the largest trade deficit towards the European Union, China and Mexico.

In the last month, the deficit was clearest in exchanges with Taiwan, Vietnam and Mexico, which confirms the development of trade routes heading towards Washington, a trend that was observed during the last quarter.