The U.S. trade deficit was $44.8 billion in July, down $6.8 billion from the previous month, according to the Department of Commerce.
Exports rose $6.2 billion to $178 billion while imports fell $500 million to $222.8 billion.
Year-over-year, the trade deficit increased $3.2 billion, with both imports and exports up more than $20 billion.
Over the month, the nation increased its exports of industrial supplies and materials, capital goods and automotive vehicles, parts and engines. It imported fewer industrial supplies and materials and food products.
