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US goods trade deficit widens 27% in May to $105.8 billion

US goods trade deficit widens 27% in May to $105.8 billion

Goods exports fell $11.8 billion, or 5%, to $207.7 billion, leaving the deficit at its largest level since March 2025 and marking the biggest monthly increase since November 2025.

Fact Check
The Census Bureau Advance Economic Indicators Report (CB26-110) confirms the goods trade deficit of $105.8 billion in May 2026, up $22.7 billion from $83.0 billion (approximately 27%), with exports of $207.7 billion down 5.4% and imports of $313.4 billion up 3.6%. Reuters corroborates the 27.4% widening and figures. The 'largest since March 2025' framing matches the Kobeissi Letter and Reuters '14-month high.' The claim's core numbers are fully supported by the primary government source. The only detail not independently corroborated is 'biggest monthly increase since November 2025,' but this does not undermine the well-verified headline figures.
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Summary

The U.S. goods trade deficit widened by $22.8 billion, or 27%, in May to $105.8 billion. That was the largest deficit since March 2025 and the biggest monthly increase since November 2025. Goods exports dropped by $11.8 billion, or 5%, to $207.7 billion, the lowest level cited in the source, pointing to a sharp deterioration in the goods trade balance for the month.

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