FILE - In this Feb. 20, 2015 file photo, the HS Mozart cargo ship, right, operated by the German shipping company Hansa Shipping, sits anchored in Commencement Bay near the Port of Tacoma, Wash. The Commerce Department reports on the U.S. trade gap for July on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2015. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File)
September 03, 2015 - 5:35 AM
WASHINGTON - The U.S. trade deficit fell in July to the lowest level in five months as exports posted a small gain while imports declined, reflecting a big drop in shipments of consumer goods such as cellphones.
The Commerce Department says the deficit narrowed to $41.9 billion in July, a 7.4 per cent decline from a June imbalance of $45.2 billion. Exports were up a small 0.4 per cent to $188.5 billion, helped by stronger sales of U.S.-made autos and machinery, while imports declined 1.1 per cent to $230.4 billion.
So far this year, the deficit is running 3.6 per cent above last year's level, reflecting weaker export sales. The concern is that U.S. growth will be hurt by further declines in exports, reflecting a stronger dollar and overseas weakness in nations such as China.
News from © The Associated Press, 2015