USA Surpasses China as Germany's Top Trading Partner for the First Time Since 2016

Germany's trade with the U.S. reached €255 billion in 2024, as exports to China declined due to its economic slowdown.

Germany's trade with the United States in 2024 totaled €255 billion, surpassing China by €8 billion and marking the first time since 2016 that the U.S. has been Germany's top trading partner.
German exports to China fell by 6.4% in 2024, attributed to China's ongoing economic challenges and increased competition from domestic Chinese automakers.
The overall German foreign trade volume declined by approximately 2% in 2024, with automotive exports to China being particularly affected.
Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration as U.S. President has raised concerns over potential tariffs on European imports and further escalation of the U.S.-China trade conflict, which could pressure Germany to align more closely with the U.S.
German companies are increasingly diversifying trade away from China, with significant growth in trade with Vietnam, Poland, and a slight recovery in trade with the United Kingdom post-Brexit.