Trade deficit narrows slightly in September

Total exports of $155.4 billion and imports of $211.9 billion in September resulted in a goods and services deficit of $56.5 billion, down from $59.1 billion in August. September exports were $9.9 billion less than August exports while September imports were $12.5 billion less than August imports. This is generally good news, however that both exports and imports declined says little we'd like to hear about demand.

Over the past year, there was relatively little change in the trade deficit, but both exports and imports had risen. In September 2008, the goods and services deficit increased $1.0 billion from September 2007. Exports were up $12.6 billion, or 8.8 percent, and imports were up $13.6 billion, or 6.9 percent.

The next goods and services trade release will be on December 11. (BEA/CEN)