In the first half of 2024, the United States became Germany’s largest trading partner, surpassing China. Trade between Germany and the U.S. reached around 127 billion euros, while trade with China totaled 122 billion euros. This change marks a significant shift, as China had been Germany’s top partner for eight years.
German exports to the U.S. grew by 3.3% to nearly 81 billion euros, while exports to China fell by almost 3% to just over 48 billion euros. Imports from China also decreased by nearly 8%, totaling 73.5 billion euros, whereas U.S. imports dropped by 3.4% to 46.1 billion euros.
The shift reflects Germany’s efforts to reduce reliance on China and respond to geopolitical and economic uncertainties. The resilience of the U.S. economy has contributed to this change, but the future of trade dynamics remains uncertain amid global economic challenges.
