WSJ Tech News Briefing · Tuesday, July 7, 2026
The US trade deficit saw a significant increase of over 42% in May, reaching its highest point since March 2025. This widening is attributed to increased imports of products such as pharmaceuticals, vehicles, and semiconductors, fueled by the AI boom, while exports declined.
“And the US trade deficit widened by more than 42% in May as companies imported more products like pharmaceuticals, vehicles and semiconductors for the AI boom.”
“That marked its highest level since March 2025, when companies were racing to import goods ahead of President Trump's new tariffs.”
“Exports fell by more than 3% and imports picked up by 3.3% on the month, aided by strong demand for goods related to the AI buildout, including semiconductors and computer accessories.”