U.S. trade deficit hits record $1.2 trillion despite tariff policies

The U.S. merchandise trade deficit reached an all-time high of $1.2 trillion last year, according to recent government data. While trade patterns have shifted away from China toward other Asian exporters, the overall deficit has remained largely unchanged despite aggressive tariff policies aimed at reducing it. The figures highlight the ongoing complexity of global supply chains and resilient domestic demand for foreign-made goods.