For the first time since 2015, the United States has overtaken China as Germany’s largest trading partner, reflecting shifting global economic dynamics. Official data shows that declining exports to China and evolving trade patterns have reshaped Germany’s commercial landscape.

Key Trade Figures

• Trade between Germany and the US grew by 0.1% year-on-year, reaching €252.8 billion in 2024, according to Germany’s Federal Statistical Office.
• Meanwhile, China’s trade volume with Germany fell by 3.1% to €246.3 billion, ending its eight-year reign as Germany’s top partner.
• The Netherlands, traditionally a strong trading partner, ranked third with €205.7 billion in trade, down 4.2% from the previous year.
• Germany’s trade surplus with the US expanded significantly, rising to €70 billion in 2024 from €63.3 billion in 2023. This was driven by a 2.2% increase in exports to €161.4 billion, while imports from the US declined 3.4% to €91.4 billion.
• In contrast, Germany’s trade deficit with China widened, as imports from China dropped 0.3% to €156.3 billion, while German exports to China saw a steeper 7.6% decline, reaching €90 billion.

Germany’s Economic Challenges

Germany, Europe’s largest economy, has struggled to sustain growth over the past five years. Once a dominant force in global trade, particularly in industrial machinery and automotive exports, the country now faces mounting competition from Chinese manufacturers. A sluggish domestic economy and geopolitical trade shifts have further compounded these challenges.

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Looking Ahead

As Germany prepares for a new government following the upcoming elections, reviving economic growth will be a top priority. Trade relations with both China and the United States will remain critical, especially as Germany navigates the policies of the next US administration. The decisions made in the coming months could shape the country’s trade strategy for years to come.