Imports to Germany increased by 0.7% month-over-month to EUR 113.8 billion in February 2025, easing from an upwardly revised 5% gain in the previous month. This moderate growth in imports reflects a slight slowdown in purchasing activity, following a strong surge in January.
German exports growth at three-month high
Arrivals from EU countries grew by 2.3%, with both the Euro area (up 2.8%) and the non-Euro area (up 1.4%) contributing to the increase. This rise was likely supported by ongoing demand for raw materials and intermediate goods that are critical for Germany’s industrial and manufacturing sectors, which remain a key driver of economic activity.
However, arrivals from third countries saw a decline of 1%, primarily driven by lower purchases from the U.S. (-3.9%), the UK (-5.2%), and the Russian Federation (-4.5%). The reduction in imports from these nations may reflect a combination of weaker demand, possibly due to the ongoing global trade tensions, as well as specific economic challenges in these regions. The U.S., facing its own trade and economic pressures, and the UK, dealing with post-Brexit adjustments, both saw reduced trade with Germany. Similarly, lower imports from Russia could be linked to the impact of sanctions and economic instability in the region.
Robust increase in outbound shipments
On the export side, Germany saw a robust increase in outbound shipments, with exports rising by 1.8% month-over-month to EUR 131.6 billion in February 2025. This marked the strongest export growth since November 2024, following a flat figure of 0% in the previous month. The growth was primarily driven by higher sales to the EU, which increased by 0.5%, particularly to the Euro area (up 0.3%) and the non-Euro area (up 1%). The European Union remains a crucial trading partner for Germany, and despite the ongoing trade challenges in other parts of the world, Germany’s position within the EU continues to support export growth.
Moreover, shipments to third countries increased by 3.2%, with strong performances to both the USA and China. Exports to the USA rose by a significant 8.5%, likely reflecting continued demand for high-value German products, such as machinery, automotive components, and industrial equipment. Similarly, exports to China grew by 0.6%, despite challenges related to global trade tensions and domestic economic adjustments in China. These increases reflect Germany’s strength in global markets, with its high-quality industrial and manufactured goods in demand across a range of sectors.
Decline in shipments to the UK
However, there was a decline in shipments to the UK (-3.8%) and the Russian Federation (-3%), reflecting the ongoing challenges in these regions. The UK’s exit from the EU continues to pose hurdles for trade, as new customs checks and tariffs are implemented. Meanwhile, the reduction in exports to Russia can be attributed to the economic constraints imposed by sanctions and broader geopolitical tensions.
Overall, Germany's trade data for February 2025 suggests a mixed outlook, with continued strong export performance to key markets such as the EU, the U.S., and China, while trade with the UK and Russia remains under pressure. These trends highlight the complexities of the global trade environment, where geopolitical risks and regional challenges continue to shape trade flows.
