Imports fell 1.1% to $326.3 billion, while exports fell 0.3% to $258.9 billion.
The US trade deficit fell in August, mainly due to the drop in imports, particularly oil products, while exports also fell slightly.
On September 21, the United States Federal Reserve (Fed) raised its reference interest rate by 75 basis points for the third consecutive time, to place it in a range between 3% and 3.25%, in an attempt to contain the inflation in that country that is at its highest levels in almost 40 years.
Employment applies setback to rate hike
Meanwhile, US private employers stepped up hiring in September, suggesting that demand for workers remains strong despite rising interest rates and tighter financial conditions.
Private employment increased by 208,000 positions last month, the ADP National Employment report showed on Wednesday.
Data for August was revised up to show 185,000 jobs created instead of the 132,000 previously reported. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast an increase of 200,000 private jobs.
With information from Reuters and AFP.
