German Businesses Warn of Growing Dependence on U.S. Digital Imports

A Bitkom survey reveals widespread concerns about technological reliance on the U.S. as Trump prepares to take office again.

A Bitkom survey of over 600 German companies found that 81% feel dependent on U.S. digital technologies and services, with 41% describing the dependence as 'strong.'
95% of surveyed companies believe Germany must reduce its reliance on U.S. digital imports to ensure greater technological sovereignty.
Over half of the companies (56%) plan to adjust their business strategies, and 50% anticipate changes to supply chains due to Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency.
Only 3% of firms believe they could operate for more than two years without digital imports, with many reporting reliance on U.S. products like smartphones, software, and cybersecurity tools.
Dependence on China is also a concern, with 79% of companies importing digital technologies and services from the country, exacerbating supply chain vulnerabilities.