Washington, April 11 (QNA) - The US budget deficit was little changed in the first quarter of 2026, as stronger revenues, including income taxes and tariffs, helped offset higher government spending.
Data from the US Department of the Treasury showed the deficit stood at $164 billion for January-March, up slightly from the same period a year earlier.
However, the deficit narrowed sharply in the preceding quarter, falling by 11%, or $139 billion, in October-December 2025, supported by a surge in revenues linked to higher tariff collections.
Earlier this year, the US Supreme Court struck down a significant portion of those tariffs, a move that could weigh on future government receipts.
The Treasury may also be required to reimburse companies for excess duties collected, following a wave of legal challenges, potentially adding pressure to the federal fiscal position. (QNA)