Global market challenges are increasing for German companies

According to the survey, 58% of German companies reported encountering additional trade barriers in the past 12 months. This is the second-highest level since 2012. Last year, this figure was recorded at 61%.

Of the companies surveyed, 59% complained about certification requirements, while 45% stated that increasing security regulations, high customs tariffs, and opaque legislation were making business planning more difficult. Additionally, 70% of the companies expect the U.S. trade policy to negatively impact their operations.

Volker Treier, Director of Foreign Trade at DIHK DIHK Foreign Trade Director Volker Treier assessed the current trade policies of the United States and stated, "The growing trade barriers and protectionist signals from Washington are causing our companies great concern."

Treier also highlighted that the current U.S. trade policies are a significant concern for German companies, and stated, "If we don't ease the burden on companies creating value at home, we will continue to lose ground internationally. The barriers to foreign trade must be removed sooner rather than later. The global environment is challenging enough – we cannot afford additional bureaucracy."