A country's net exports are a minus figure in GDP calculations whenever?

In GDP calculations, net exports are determined by the difference between the value of a country's exports and its imports. When net exports are a negative figure, it indicates that the country is importing more goods and services than it is exporting. This situation arises specifically when the value of imports exceeds the value of exports.

In this case, if imports are greater than exports, the result is a negative net export figure, which can impact the overall GDP calculation. In such circumstances, this negative value detracts from the GDP, reflecting a trade deficit where the country is purchasing larger quantities of foreign goods than it is selling abroad. Understanding this concept is critical as it directly relates to a country's economic health and trade position on the global stage.