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Euro Area Trade Surplus Drops To €7.8 Billion In March

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

May 25, 2026

Euro Area Trade Surplus Falls Sharply In March

Preliminary data from Eurostat showed that the euro area’s goods trade surplus declined to €7.8 billion in March 2026 from €34.1 billion in March 2025, reflecting a sharp deterioration in the region’s external trade balance. The March figure also marked a decline from the €11.1 billion surplus recorded in February 2026.

Exports Decline As Imports Rise

Weaker export activity across the euro area was the main driver behind the contraction. Exports fell 5.5% year-on-year to €265.3 billion, while imports increased 4.4% to €257.4 billion. Rising imports combined with lower outbound shipments added pressure on the region’s trade balance and highlighted shifting trade flows across global markets.

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Manufacturing Sectors Record Sharp Declines

Several major manufacturing sectors recorded notable declines during the period. Surplus in chemicals and related products dropped from €41.8 billion to €18.9 billion year-on-year. Machinery and vehicles also recorded weaker performance, with the sector’s export surplus declining from €17.6 billion to €9.7 billion. Broad-based pressure across manufacturing activity is becoming increasingly visible in the latest trade data.

Wider European Union Trade Balance Weakens

Across the broader European Union, member states recorded a combined trade surplus of €5.9 billion in March 2026, compared with €34.0 billion a year earlier. Extra-EU exports declined 8.7% during the month, while imports increased 2.7%. Meanwhile, the EU’s energy deficit widened from minus €21.9 billion to minus €28.6 billion month-on-month, adding further pressure to the bloc’s overall trade position.

First-Quarter Trade Surplus Narrows

During the first quarter of 2026, the euro area’s cumulative trade surplus fell to €16.6 billion from €55.4 billion in the corresponding period of 2025. Exports declined 6.5% to €713.1 billion, while imports fell 1.5% to €696.5 billion. Modest growth in intra-Euro area trade partially offset weaker external trade activity during the quarter.

Structural Pressure Reshapes Trade Dynamics

Latest figures point to a significant shift in the euro area’s trade profile, driven by weaker exports, sectoral declines and a widening energy deficit. Deterioration across key manufacturing categories also highlights mounting pressure on European exporters amid changing global trade conditions.

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Starbucks Wins ‘Best Workplace / Employer Of Choice At The 18th IN Business Awards

by News Editor

May 26, 2026

Starbucks was recently awarded the ‘Best Workplace / Employer of Choice’ award at the 18th IN Business Awards in Greece — a recognition that reflects the company’s philosophy and its ongoing investment in its people.

This distinction confirms Starbucks’ commitment to creating a work environment defined by respect, collaboration, inclusivity, and equal opportunities for all. Starbucks consistently fosters a culture that encourages growth, authenticity, and participation since people are always at the center.

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“At Starbucks, our success is rooted in our people. This recognition is a testament to our team’s dedication to nurturing a space where everyone can express themselves, grow equally, and deliver exceptional experiences to our customers,” said Pambis Anastasis — District Manager of Starbucks, who received the award.

Through modern development and employee support practices, Starbucks meaningfully invests in the continuous training and empowerment of its workforce, offering learning opportunities, mentorship, and career advancement at every stage of their journey.

The company also promotes an inclusive workplace where every employee feels a sense of belonging, can express themselves freely, and grow equally. This approach is a core element of Starbucks’ identity and is reflected both in the company’s internal culture, and in the experience it delivers to customers.

Winning at the prestigious IN Business Awards is a great honor for Starbucks and serves as a strong affirmation that its people are always at the heart of every step it takes.