The U.S. trade deficit in goods narrowed to the lowest level in nearly two years in June as imports fell sharply, cementing economists' expectations that trade likely accounted for much of an anticipated rebound in economic growth in the second quarter.

Fewer goods traded both ways across U.S. borders last month, but the deficit fell as imports dropped more than exports. June's goods-trade deficit stood at $86 billion, according to preliminary numbers from the Commerce Department.

The U.S. trade deficit in goods contracted sharply in June amid a decline in imports, cementing economists' expectations that trade likely accounted for much of an anticipated rebound in economic growth in the second quarter.