Analysis
Both exports and imports increased. The larger gap reflects the faster rise in purchases from abroad during the month. [1]
Imports rose faster than exports
Imports increased 4.3% to $420.8 billion, while exports rose 1.4% to $315.2 billion. The goods deficit reached $136.6 billion, partly offset by a $31.0 billion services surplus. [1]
What remains uncertain
The release covers August activity, not October trade. These headline dollar figures are seasonally adjusted but are not adjusted for price changes; prior-month estimates can be revised. [1]