Customs dispute with the USA: German export collapses in April!

Customs dispute with the USA: German export collapses in April!

USA - The continuing customs dispute with the USA has a significant impact on the German export industry. In April 2025, Germany exported was worth 131.1 billion euros, which corresponds to a decline of 1.7 percent compared to the previous month and 2.1 percent compared to the previous year. This development is particularly worrying, since exports to the USA, Germany's most important trading partner, have dropped to 13 billion euros-the lowest value since October 2024. As the Süddeutsche Zeitung reports, the export decline in retail with the United States was 6.3 percent compared to April 2024.

The uncertainty in international trade is primarily due to the aggressive customs policy of US President Donald Trump, who presented a new extensive customs package in early April 2025. Trump had previously doubled the tariffs to the import of steel and aluminum to the USA, from 25 to 50 percent. These frequent changes and threats with tariffs mean that many companies fear that they cannot do their business as planned, which leads to a decline in export numbers.

Current trends and effects on the economy

Despite the difficulties in April 2025, German exports show a slight increase of 0.2 percent in the period from January to April, which is due to early business activities due to the expected customs policy. In the first quarter of 2025, exports rose easily, while the companies tried to handle their business before the possible tightening of tariffs. However, this tactic could not be permanent, since the situation is still shaped by uncertainties, which are reinforced by the irregular coordination between the USA and the EU via mutual tariffs.

The German companies are faced with the challenge of bringing their supply chains and contracts for review in view of customs policy. According to a report by kpmg , measures such as the evaluation of customs data, the review of delivery contracts and the evaluation of the goods rating are necessary to develop the best strategies for minimizing customs costs. Companies also have to analyze potential customs effects on input and sales and weigh whether goods can be excluded from possible customs measures.

Future view

The uncertainty remains a constant companion of the German export industry. The continuous changes in the US trade and customs policy means that companies are forced to constantly adapt to new conditions. In order to counteract the effects of tariffs, companies should increasingly rely on flexible solutions and strategies for reducing costs, including the use of free trade zones and the implementation of customs interference regulations. According to rnd , the threatening market survival in the EU will also be an important aspect.