Percent of GDP, Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted

BPBLTT01CZA188S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

-1.37

Year-over-Year Change

-71.87%

Date Range

1/1/1995 - 1/1/2013

Summary

This economic trend measures the U.S. balance of trade as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) on an annual, not seasonally adjusted basis. It provides insight into the country's international trade performance and economic health.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

The balance of trade as a percentage of GDP is a key macroeconomic indicator that reflects a nation's trading position and competitiveness. This metric shows the relationship between a country's exports and imports, offering valuable context for policymakers and analysts to assess economic trends and drivers.

Methodology

The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis using national accounts and trade statistics.

Historical Context

Policymakers and economists closely monitor this trend to gauge the overall health of the U.S. economy and make informed decisions regarding trade, fiscal, and monetary policies.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. trade deficit was 3.1% of GDP in 2021.
  • The trade deficit peaked at 6% of GDP in 2006.
  • Exports accounted for 12.4% of U.S. GDP in 2021.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend measures the U.S. balance of trade as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) on an annual, not seasonally adjusted basis.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This metric provides important insights into the country's international trade performance and competitiveness, which are crucial factors for policymakers and economists to consider when evaluating the overall health of the U.S. economy.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis using national accounts and trade statistics.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and economists closely monitor this trend to gauge the overall health of the U.S. economy and make informed decisions regarding trade, fiscal, and monetary policies.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is published annually by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, with some delay in reporting the most recent year's figures.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent of GDP, Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted (BPBLTT01CZA188S), retrieved from FRED.