Imports rose 1.5% and exports were up 0.6%, both led by energy products.
Total imports were up 1.5% to a record $49.7 billion in December, with increases in 9 of 11 sections. Volumes rose 1.0% and prices increased 0.5%. Higher imports of energy products and industrial machinery, equipment and parts were partially offset by lower imports of aircraft and other transportation equipment and parts.
Total exports rose for the third consecutive month, up 0.6% to $46.5 billion in December despite decreases in 6 of 11 sections. Prices were up 0.5% while volumes were essentially unchanged. Higher exports of energy products, and metal and non-metallic mineral products were partially offset by lower exports of consumer goods. Exports excluding energy products decreased 0.6%.