Overview
- DIHK reported Tuesday that 69% of exporters saw more barriers, an 11‑point jump to the highest level since the survey began in 2005, based on 2,400 firms polled February 2–13.
- Tariffs stand out as the top hurdle, with 86% of companies active in the United States saying duties especially strain their business.
- Firms also point to non‑tariff rules that slow sales, including local certification checks, tighter security rules, and export controls, while 83% cite EU or German rules such as supply‑chain reporting, packaging mandates, and the CO2 border levy known as CBAM.
- Outlook is weak as 21% expect business to worsen and 16% see improvement, and DIHK warns the Iran conflict will push up container shipping and air freight costs.
- Companies are re‑routing to markets like India and South America as DIHK flags the U.S. as a growing risk and urges fresh trade deals and stronger WTO rules, with recent references to work with Australia and Canada.