Most common commodities exported from Germany

Germany is one of the world’s largest economies and a highly industrialized, diversified, and stable market. As an important trading partner in the worldwide supply network, the most common commodities exported from Germany include motor vehicles and automotive components, machinery, chemicals, computer hardware, and electronics.

Germany as an export nation

In 2021, Germany maintained its position as the world’s third-largest exporter (behind China and the USA), and third-largest importer (behind the USA and China). 

Even though Germany’s world trade share (exports and imports of goods in USD) decreased from the previous year, falling to 6.8 percent (2020: 7.2 percent), the country offers long-term potential and many opportunities for forwarding companies worldwide offering innovative and quality products.

In addition, Germany is a transshipment hub for the flow of goods in Europe and the world as a whole. More goods transit through Germany than through any other EU country. 

Around one-third of the business turnover in the EU’s ten most important logistics markets is generated in Germany, with 3 million people involved in logistics. The Port of Hamburg, where some 9 million standard containers are processed each year, is a gateway to the world.

Here is a breakdown of the most common commodities exported from Germany in 2021 (latest data available):

• Vehicles and vehicle parts (15.3%);
• Machinery (14.2%);
• Chemical products (10.0%);
• Computer/electrical and optical equipment (8.8%);

As Germany is highly integrated into the global economy, employment in Germany is also heavily dependent on open markets and international trade: 27% of jobs in Germany are directly or indirectly linked to exports.

Germany’s main trading partners

In 2021, Germany’s most important target market for trade in goods remained Europe, which accounted for 67.5% of German exports and 65.6% of German imports. Germany’s share of trade with the EU in 2021 was 53.1% for German exports and 51.9% for imports.

However, over time, the BRICS countries have gained importance as trade partners for Germany due to their increasing integration into the global economy. Between 2006 and 2021, the share of German exports to the BRICS countries increased from 7.9% to 11.7%.

The United States, meanwhile, managed to consolidate its position as Germany’s most important export market in 2021, while China’s share as the second most important export market fell to 7.5%. 

All in all, the partner countries of the European Union (EU) are still the most important target market for the country, followed by the United States and the People’s Republic of China. 

Looking for a freight partner in Germany?

As mentioned earlier, Germany is an important trading partner worldwide. The country offers competitive tax regulations, investment incentives, and a secure and highly developed political and economic structure.

Therefore, many freight companies consider Germany a very valuable partner in the global supply chain. Business opportunities continue to grow each year in Germany, causing many companies to expand their operations to the region.

If you are a freight forwarder interested in the most common commodities exported from Germany that we mentioned above, don’t waste any time, the prospects for the region are favorable! 

Just remember to choose the right forwarding partner for your business who has the necessary experience in the region. If you need partners from Germany, search for forwarders on Parnity!