What Germany Trades: Export Powerhouse, Strategic Importer

Germany's trade profile reflects its advanced manufacturing core and resource-poor geography.

Top Exports (2023, € billions)

1. Vehicles & Parts (~€250B): VW, Mercedes, BMW, Porsche + components
2. Machinery (~€200B): Industrial, construction, agricultural, machine tools
3. Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals (~€150B): BASF, Bayer, specialty chemicals, APIs
4. Electrical Equipment (~€120B): Siemens, Bosch, automation, appliances
5. Metals & Metal Products (~€80B): Steel, aluminum, precision tubes
6. Precision/Optical Instruments (~€60B): Medical, scientific, measurement
7. Food & Beverages (~€50B): Processed foods, beer, confectionery

Top Imports

1. Energy & Raw Materials: Crude oil, natural gas, coal, ores, rare earths
2. Electronic Components: Semiconductors, ICs (critical for auto/industry)
3. Machinery & Specialized Equipment: Complementary to domestic production
4. Textiles & Apparel: Largely from Asia, Eastern Europe
5. Agricultural Products: Fruits, vegetables, coffee, tropical commodities
6. Chemicals/Pharma: Specialty inputs for domestic value chains

Trade Policy Framework

• EU Single Market: ~60% of trade with EU partners
• WTO/EU FTAs: CETA (Canada), JEFTA (Japan), Mercosur (pending), US (TTIP stalled)
• Quality & Sustainability: REACH, CBAM (carbon border), supply chain due diligence law

Key Partners

China (largest single partner), USA, Netherlands, France, Poland, Italy.