06 February 2026 – The export year 2025 was a challenging one. Exports to our previously most important trading partner, the United States of America, fell by almost 10 percent. Exports to China, another economic giant, also decreased significantly – another decline after the bitter Corona years. However, positively developing imports mean that China has once again surpassed the US to become Germany's most important international market. A weak consolation! At least, there are increasing signs that the trend in German exports was pointing upwards again by the end of the year.

The total year of 2025 in German foreign trade was partially saved by noticeably increased demand from European countries. This shows how crucial German and European economic policies focused on competitiveness are now. European resilience and sovereignty vis-à-vis economic heavyweights also need to be strengthened. However, it should not be overlooked that our prosperity is based on open access to third markets. Therefore, it is all the more important to maintain the pace and quality of the European Union's free trade efforts.