Overview

• The Bundesverband Großhandel, Außenhandel (BGA) forecasts a 2.5% decline in German goods exports for 2025.
• Exports to the United States fell for a fourth straight month in July to the lowest level since December 2021.
• The U.S. imposed 15% tariffs on most EU goods from August 7, after raising steel and aluminum duties to 50% in June under President Donald Trump.
• Nearly 60% of exporting firms report direct or indirect negative effects from higher U.S. tariffs and domestic bureaucracy, according to the BGA.
• The BGA urges rapid regulatory relief, more resilient supply chains, and new free‑trade agreements to preserve market access and competitiveness.