Trade Surplus


Trade Surplus

A nation's excess of exports over imports during a given time frame.

Trade Surplus

The difference between the value of a country's exports and the value of its imports, where the value of exports is greater. Analysts disagree on the impact, if any, of a trade surplus on the economy. Some economists believe that a trade surplus creates employment and increases GDP growth. Others believe that the balance of trade has little impact. A trade surplus is also called a favorable balance of trade. See also: Trade deficit.

trade surplus

The amount of goods and services that a country exports that is in excess of the amount of goods and services it imports. A trade surplus increases economic activity in a country but also may result in higher prices and interest rates if the economy is already operating at near capacity. Compare trade deficit.