Germany's trade deficit with China rises to €55 billion in first half of 2026

Germany's trade deficit with China rose to approximately €55 billion in the first half of 2026, according to Reuters. Exports to China fell by more than 12% to less than €37 billion, while imports increased by 8.9% to €91.8 billion. China has dropped to ninth place among Germany's largest export markets (it was second in 2021), reflecting Beijing's decreasing reliance on European imports and growing competition from Chinese manufacturers. This shift intensifies pressure on German industry, already suffering from U.S. tariffs, Chinese competition, and massive layoffs, including at Volkswagen.