The difference between the amount you
import and the amount you
export (in whatever currency you wish). If your exports account for more than you imports, you have a
trade surplus. I'm not enough of an economist to say what's better, but a lot of
American politicians are always ranting about the trade
deficit and unfair trade practices.
When it comes to C!s, though, I would love to get more of them than I give out. Two chances of that happening, though, fat and slim.