U.S. exports fell 0.7% in April

U.S. exports fell 0.7% in April

Locke

   U.S. exports for April decreased 0.7 percent to $148.8 billion from their March level, the Census Bureau and the Bureau of Economic Analysis, through the U.S. Commerce Department, announced Thursday.
   Imports in April decreased 0.4 percent over March to $189.1 billion.
   Specifically, the March to April decrease in exports of goods reflected decreases in other goods ($800 million); consumer goods ($700 million); and foods, feeds, and beverages ($600 million). Increases occurred in industrial supplies and materials ($600 million) and automotive vehicles, parts, and engines ($100 million). Capital goods were unchanged, the statistical agencies said.
   The March to April decrease in imports of goods reflected decreases in consumer goods ($1.7 billion); other goods ($500 million); and automotive vehicles, parts, and engines ($200 million). Increases occurred in capital goods ($1.4 billion) and industrial supplies and materials ($100 million). Foods, feeds, and beverages were unchanged.
   'While our economy continues to strengthen, we still have a lot of work to do,' said Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, in a statement. 'Part of that work means making good on the priorities outlined in the president's National Export Initiative, including a focus on leveling the playing field for U.S. companies and putting more trade specialists in foreign markets to help U.S. businesses sell their goods and services abroad.'