The U.S. trade deficit narrowed sharply in April, with imports decreasing by the most on record as the front-running of goods ahead of tariffs ebbed, which could provide a lift to economic growth this quarter.

The US trade deficit narrowed in April by the most on record on the largest-ever plunge in imports, illustrating an abrupt end to the massive front-loading of goods by some companies ahead of higher tariffs.

Americans bought fewer foreign pharmaceuticals, cellphones and cars, and cut purchases of machinery and other supplies.

The United States is looking to restore the flow of “crucial” rare earth minerals, which were restricted after China’s retaliatory efforts in early April.

The US and China will continue trade talks on Tuesday after six hours of discussions between top officials kicked off in London on Monday. Tuesday's talks are expected to continue to focus on easing tensions over rare earths and tech.

With increasing tension between the world’s two largest economies – over rare earth minerals, over Chinese students at U.S. universities – a look at some data points.