The United States agricultural sector recorded a historic trade deficit in the first half of 2025, marking a major shift from decades of consistent surpluses.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, the deficit reached $28.6 billion by June, with agricultural exports trailing imports by $4.1 billion that month — a 14% increase over the previous year.
This decline reflects limited ability to expand crop and livestock production, along with a growing US demand for imported fruits, vegetables, and other goods.
Trade tensions have also contributed, particularly the ongoing trade war with China.