The United States trade deficit significantly widened in May. Imports of capital goods reached a record high, driven by artificial intelligence investments. Exports experienced a decline, though petroleum shipments were strong. Trade has now subtracted from gross domestic product for two consecutive quarters. Current forecasts predict a modest economic growth rate for the second quarter.

The US trade deficit widened to $77.6B in May 2026, up from $54.6B in April, driven by a $23.6B surge in the goods deficit that exceeded forecasts.

The US trade deficit surged to $77.6 billion in May 2026, up from $54.6B in April, as imports rose 3.3%. Here's what it means for crypto investors.

US trade deficit jumped 42% to $77.6 billion in May as AI investment drove capital goods imports to a record high, weighing on GDP growth.