Because US-ians want to buy cheap sh\*t in Walmart. On the whole, they seem to p... | Hacker News

Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit

		jleyank 4 months ago \| parent \| context \| favorite \| on: Why does the U.S. always run a trade deficit? Because US-ians want to buy cheap sh*t in Walmart. On the whole, they seem to prefer cheap to durable/costs more. So USD flow to places with cheaper goods and then flow back as investments.

sunaookami 4 months ago [–]

More expensive hasn't meant "more durable/reliable" for years now.

herbst 4 months ago | [–]

Not for everything, but in Europe we still value this kind of culture and there are still many examples where it's true.

We spend a lot more on food for example, and half of the US produce is basically illegal here because of the low quality.

Consider applying for YC's Winter 2026 batch! Applications are open till Nov 10
Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact