The US external deficit in December 2018 amounted to 59 billion 800 million dollars, an increase of 9.5 billion dollars compared with November and having reached its maximum since October 2008, the Department of Commerce reported. According to experts, the deficit was expected to increase to 49 billion 300 million dollars. Imports increased 2.1% to $264 billion 900 million. Exports showed record growth rates, an increase of 1.9% to 205 billion 120 million dollars. At the end of 2018, a trade deficit in the amount of $621 billion was recorded, which is 12.5% more than in 2017. This is a record figure since 2008. The negative trade balance with China increased to a historic high of 419 billion 200 million euros. The trade deficit with Mexico increased by 15%, with Germany - by 7.2%.
