Annual

BPCATC01CAA636N • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

300,000,000.00

Year-over-Year Change

42.18%

Date Range

1/1/1990 - 1/1/2013

Summary

The Annual trade balance measures the difference between a country's imports and exports over a one-year period. It is a key economic indicator used to assess a country's trade position and competitiveness.

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 Annual trade balance tracks the net flow of goods and services between a country and its trading partners. It is an important metric for evaluating the overall health and performance of an economy, as well as informing trade and economic policies.

Methodology

The data is collected by national statistics agencies and compiled by international organizations like the World Bank.

Historical Context

Policymakers and analysts monitor the trade balance to understand a country's position in global trade and make informed decisions about economic and trade policies.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. has run a trade deficit for over 40 years.
  • China is the largest trading partner for the U.S., with a significant trade surplus.
  • Trade balances can be influenced by exchange rates, domestic consumption, and trade policies.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Annual trade balance measures the difference between a country's total exports and total imports over a one-year period.

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

A: The trade balance is a key indicator of a country's economic health and competitiveness in global markets, making it highly relevant for policymakers, businesses, and investors.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected by national statistics agencies and compiled by international organizations like the World Bank.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers monitor trade balances to inform decisions about trade agreements, tariffs, exchange rate policies, and other economic policies that can impact a country's trade position.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The Annual trade balance data is typically published with a lag of several months, as it relies on comprehensive trade statistics that take time to collect and compile.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Annual Trade Balance (BPCATC01CAA636N), retrieved from FRED.