TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The US goods trade deficit with Taiwan jumped 99% last year, placing the country fourth among the US’ top 15 trade deficit partners.

In 2025, the US imported substantially more goods than it exported, driving its goods trade deficit to NT$38 trillion (US$1.24 trillion), a record high, per Visual Capitalist. From semiconductors to automobiles and consumer electronics, these trade patterns highlight the close link between US demand and global manufacturing.

China leads the list with a trade deficit of US$202.1 billion, followed by Mexico (US$196.9 billion) and Vietnam (US$178.2 billion). The combined deficits of these three countries account for 46% of the US total, while the top five make up 67%.

China has consistently been the focal point of US trade disputes. Despite years of tariffs and decoupling measures, the US goods trade deficit with China has remained above US$200 billion, fueled by imports of consumer electronics, machinery, and intermediate goods.

Mexico’s deficit demonstrates its role in US supply chains, especially in automobiles and electronics. Vietnam’s deficit illustrates the growing trend of supply chain diversification, as companies shift production to other Asian countries to reduce reliance on China.

With a trade deficit of NT$4.5 trillion (US$146.8 billion), Taiwan ranks fourth, largely driven by its semiconductor exports.