Answer:
A. $213 billion
Step-by-step explanation:
Given that
Good imported = 525 billion
Good exported = 312 billion
Recall that
Merchandise trade deficit = Export - Import
Thus
= 312 - 525
= -$213 billion
The negative sign indicates a deficit of $213 billion in merchandise trade.
NOTE that merchandise refers to produced GOODS, goods sold and bought. Thus, services and other things are not included in the calculation.