Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Germany's Industry Faces Crisis Amidst Declining Exports to China

2/18/2026

27 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Chancellor Friedrich Merz warns that Germany's industry faces intensified competition from China as exports to China have fallen by two-thirds since 2022.
The Rhodium Group warns of a structural decline in trade unless Germany finds alternative markets.
EU leaders push tougher policies, including a 'Buy European' initiative, to counter unfair Chinese competition.
Economists compare Germany's situation to Detroit's decline in the U.S. car industry.

1 of 1

Story summary

Chancellor Friedrich Merz warns that Germany's industry faces intensified competition from China as exports to China have fallen by two-thirds since 2022.
The Rhodium Group warns of a structural decline in trade unless Germany finds alternative markets.
EU leaders push tougher policies, including a 'Buy European' initiative, to counter unfair Chinese competition.
Economists compare Germany's situation to Detroit's decline in the U.S. car industry.