Euro Area Trade Surplus Edges Down As Sector Dynamics Shift

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 16, 2026

Recent Eurostat data points to a gradual recalibration of the euro area’s trade balance rather than a sharp downturn. In December 2025, the surplus in trade in goods stood at €12.6 billion, compared with €13.9 billion in December 2024. The change reflects shifting sector performance and evolving global demand, not a collapse in external trade strength.

Robust Export Growth And Import Gains

The first estimates indicate a 3.4% increase in euro area exports of goods to the rest of the world, which reached €234.0 billion in December 2025, rising from €226.3 billion in the previous year. Simultaneously, imports climbed by 4.2% to €221.3 billion from €212.4 billion, reflecting rising global demand and expanded market engagement.

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Sectoral Analysis: Chemical Industry And Beyond

The contraction in the overall trade surplus is particularly pronounced in key sectors. In the chemicals and related products sector, the surplus experienced a marked decline from €20.2 billion in December 2024 to €16.5 billion in December 2025. Similar downward trends were noted in machinery and vehicles, other manufactured goods, and raw materials, indicating broader shifts in production and consumption patterns.

Energy Sector Improvements

In sharp contrast to other sectors, the energy segment experienced a notable narrowing of its deficit, improving from a shortfall of €24.5 billion in December 2024 to €19.1 billion in December 2025. This development hints at better energy trade dynamics and possibly more efficient energy sourcing strategies.

Annual Trade Performance

Over the full year from January to December 2025, the euro area recorded a trade surplus of €164.6 billion, compared with €168.9 billion in 2024. Exports for this period rose by 2.4% to €2.94 trillion, while imports increased by 2.7% to €2.77 trillion. Additionally, intra-euro area trade expanded by 2.0% to €2.63 trillion, illustrating a growing interconnection among member states.

These figures suggest that while the overall trading environment remains robust, nuanced sectoral trends demand closer attention from policymakers and business leaders alike. By understanding these shifts, industry stakeholders can better align their strategic initiatives with emerging global and regional market dynamics.

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Global Investment Migration: Leading Residence And Citizenship Programs For 2026

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 24, 2026

European Dominance Challenged By Global Contenders

The 2026 edition of the Henley & Partners Residence and Citizenship Programs report shows increasing competition in the investment migration market. European programs, traditionally seen as the global benchmark, are now facing stronger competition from jurisdictions in the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean as countries expand offerings aimed at attracting capital and internationally mobile investors.

New Entrants And Rapid Climbers Reshape The Landscape

Malta remains ranked first in the Global Citizenship Program Index for the 11th consecutive year, while Greece retains the top position in the Global Residence Program Index. At the same time, several jurisdictions improved their standings. The UAE moved from fifth to a joint second position, entering the top three for the first time. Countries including Costa Rica, New Zealand, Panama, and Singapore also gained ground, while Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and the Maldives appeared as new entrants.

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Competing For Capital And Global Talent

Governments increasingly use residence and citizenship frameworks as tools to attract foreign investment and entrepreneurial talent. According to Henley & Partners Chairman Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, Europe remains a strong player, but countries such as Singapore and the UAE are accelerating reforms to strengthen their appeal to globally mobile investors.

Established Leaders And Agile Newcomers In Citizenship Programs

The Global Citizenship Program Index continues to be led by established programs. Malta’s citizenship-by-merit framework scored 77 points, maintaining its leading position, while Austria followed with a highly selective model. Programs in Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Nauru also received strong rankings. New entrants such as São Tomé and Príncipe and Samoa reflect a broader expansion of citizenship-based offerings.

European Consolidation And Emerging Residence Hubs

In the residence category, Greece remains first, supported by EU access and lifestyle advantages. Italy, Switzerland, and the UAE continue to compete closely, combining tax efficiency with investor-oriented policies. Portugal and Australia maintain strong positions, while Uruguay is emerging as a stable option with growing international interest.

Performance Metrics And Strategic Advantages

Both indexes evaluate 40 programs across factors including reputation, quality of life, compliance standards, investment requirements, and tax considerations. Austria and Malta scored strongly on program quality, while the UAE ranked highly in lifestyle and tax competitiveness. The rankings highlight how jurisdictions are positioning themselves to attract globally mobile capital.

Wealth On The Move

The report points to a broader shift in global wealth mobility. According to Dominic Volek, Group Head of Private Clients at Henley & Partners, investors increasingly prioritize stability, transparency, and clear long-term pathways when choosing residence or citizenship options.

As global uncertainty persists, residence and citizenship programs are increasingly viewed not only as investment tools but as strategic instruments for long-term mobility and risk diversification.

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