Imports of goods and services
IEAMGSN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
1,158,497.00
Year-over-Year Change
23.24%
Date Range
1/1/1999 - 1/1/2025
Summary
Imports of Goods and Services tracks the total value of all goods and services purchased from foreign countries by the United States. It is a key indicator of economic activity and international trade dynamics.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
Imports of Goods and Services measures the total market value of all goods and services purchased from other countries by U.S. residents. It is an important macroeconomic indicator used to assess the strength of domestic demand and the nation's trade balance.
Methodology
The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on surveys of international trade activity.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts closely monitor imports to gauge consumer demand, inflationary pressures, and the overall trade position of the U.S. economy.
Key Facts
- Imports accounted for 16.1% of U.S. GDP in 2021.
- China was the largest source of U.S. imports in 2021 at $506 billion.
- Imports of consumer goods reached a record high of $725 billion in 2021.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: Imports of Goods and Services measures the total value of all goods and services purchased from foreign countries by U.S. residents and businesses.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Imports are a key indicator of domestic demand, international trade dynamics, and the U.S. trade balance. Monitoring imports helps policymakers and analysts assess economic conditions and the strength of the dollar.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on surveys of international trade activity.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts closely monitor imports to gauge consumer demand, inflationary pressures, and the overall trade position of the U.S. economy, which informs decisions on trade policy, monetary policy, and more.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published monthly with a lag of around one month. There may be revisions to historical data as more complete information becomes available.
Related Trends
Advance U.S. International Trade in Goods: Imports: Other Goods
AITGIOS
Imports of Services: Other business services
IEAMSB
U.S. Imports of Goods by Customs Basis from Canada
IMPCA
Imports of Goods: Nonmonetary gold
IEAMGGN
U.S. Imports of Services: Other Business Services
ITMOBSM133S
U.S. Imports of Services: Telecommunications, Computer, and Information Services
ITMTCIM133S
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Imports of Goods and Services (IEAMGSN), retrieved from FRED.