What is a trade deficit really?

Trade deficits have become a large issue in recent years, with many trade war eruptions because of them. Trade deficits are defined as a deficit that occurs when a country’s total import exceeds total exports. But is this deficit notionally correct? <br><br>Why should it matter how much a country imports and exports. If a country’s economy is growing, why should it matter how much of that growth is due to domestic versus foreign production. If Australians really love Japanese cars, what does it matter? Why should a trade deficit be considered a problem?