The source you linked put the trade balance in goods at $419 billion, not $540. Also, that does not include services, where the US runs a surplus against China. But anyway, note that the trade deficit in goods has been declining since October.
This is the third month in a row that we have had this discussion. Tariffs (Trump doing something) did not start until near the end of September in 2018.
In November/December, significant changes took place in the numbers. Even more occurred in January. These February numbers are an even more pronounced downturn for the Chinese export market - accelerating, approaching a free-fall. Clearly, things have been done, and they having great effect.
Taking an average for a time frame mostly before the change (2018), will of course mask the effects of the change. If you look at what has happened since President Trump took action (October 2018), the effects are clear and dramatic.
Oh you are right, sorry I quoted the wrong number. Thanks, and sorry about that.
It was 419 Billion in difference.
Still, that is a significantly bigger new world record, than the previous all-time world record trade surplus that China set against America. Last year.
Last year was already a brand new all-time world record trade inbalance, between the two countries. Last year we bought 375 Billion more from China, than they bought from us.
Now that difference once again, buries the previous inbalance by another 44 Billion.
New, all-time world record inbalance.
Ever. By any country. By any other country.
In all of recorded human history.