German exports rise 0.9% in April despite war in Iran

Germany's exports rose slightly in April despite the war in Iran, official figures showed on Tuesday. 

Exports were up by 0.9% compared to March, the Federal Statistical Office said, and 3.6% higher than in April 2025. 

The conflict in the Middle East has hampered the recovery of Europe's largest economy, with high energy prices leading to mounting costs for the country's vital industrial sector. 

The German Council of Economic Experts recently lowered its forecast for growth in gross domestic product in 2026 to just 0.5%. 

However, the volume of German trade remained robust in April, even as the Strait of Hormuz remained largely closed to shipping despite the ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. 

Imports rose by 1.2% compared with March and by 6.2% year-on-year compared with April 2025. The figures are adjusted for calendar and seasonal effects. 

The value of German exports in April stood at €136.6 billion ($157.6 billion), while the country imported goods worth €122.1 billion. 

This resulted in an export surplus of €14.5 billion over the month, down slightly from €14.7 billion in March. 

The United States remained Germany’s most important foreign trade market, with exports amounting to €11.4 billion - 1.8% more than in March, but a 12.9% decline compared with April 2025 amid volatility due to the Trump administration's tariff policies. 

Exports to China fell by 3.5% month-on-month to €5.8 billion, while those to the United Kingdom slumped by 9.5% to €6.7 billion. 

In contrast, exports to EU member states rose by 1% to €79.1 billion.