U.S. Car Imports and Exports Crash 20% Under Trump Tariffs

Passenger vehicle imports plummeted 21.08% in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2024. Exports dropped by a similar margin, falling 21.90%. The sharp decline comes despite an overall increase in total U.S. trade during the same timeframe. The data highlights the direct impact of the Trump administration’s tariffs on the automotive sector. While the broader economy saw higher trade volumes, the car market moved in the opposite direction. Both foreign vehicles entering the U.S. and American-made cars sold abroad have contracted significantly. Industry analysts point to the new import duties as the primary factor. The tariffs have raised costs for foreign manufacturers and triggered retaliatory measures on U.S. exports.