US trade deficit narrows

A ship loaded with containers for export docks at the Port of Long Beach in Long Beach, California. American companies sold more computers, heavy machinery and telecommunications equipment in foreign markets in April, pushing exports to a record high. Imports declined, reflecting a big drop in auto imports from Japan caused by supply disruptions from the March earthquake and tsunami. The United States trade deficit narrowed by 6.7 percent in April to US$43.7 billion, the lowest level since December, the Commerce Department reported yesterday. Exports of US goods and services rose 1.3 percent to a record US$175.6 billion. Imports dipped 0.4 percent to US$219.2 billion as imports from Japan plunged 25.5 percent. The trade deficit with China increased 19.4 percent to US$21.6 billion.

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