Overview

• BGA now projects a 2.5% decline in Germany’s goods exports this year, citing steep US duties and heavy domestic bureaucracy.
• Official figures show exports to the US have dropped for four straight months, with July the lowest since late 2021.
• From August 7, most EU goods face a 15% US tariff, and since June US duties on steel and aluminum have stood at 50% under President Donald Trump.
• The trade group reports roughly 43,000 jobs lost in wholesale and foreign trade over the past year and widespread corporate pessimism.
• BGA urges rapid political action including less red tape, stronger supply‑chain support, and new free‑trade agreements, while Allianz Trade warns firms have limited capacity to diversify without major investment.