Feb trade deficit falls as exports hit two-year high

Washington

THE US trade deficit fell more than expected in February as exports increased to a two-year high and slowing domestic demand weighed on imports.

The Commerce Department said on Tuesday the trade gap declined 9.6 per cent to US$43.6 billion. January's trade deficit was revised slightly down to US$48.2 billion from US$48.5 billion.

Economists polled by Reuters had forecast the trade gap falling to US$44.8 billion in February.

When adjusted for inflation, the deficit decreased to US$59.7 billion, with exports of goods the hi…