China has surpassed the United States as Germany’s leading trading partner for the first eight months of 2025, according to preliminary data from the German statistics office. This shift is largely attributed to the tariffs imposed by the US under President Donald Trump, which have negatively impacted German exports.

From January to August, German trade with China totaled €163.4 billion ($190.7 billion), while trade with the US amounted to €162.8 billion. German exports to the US declined by 7.4% to €99.6 billion during this period, primarily due to weaker demand for German cars, machinery, and chemicals. Although German imports of US goods increased by about 9% over the same period, the significant decline in exports has had a more substantial impact on the overall trade figures.

The US tariffs have disrupted global trade, affecting American trade with numerous countries. Wang Yiwei, director of the Center for European Union Studies at Renmin University of China, noted that the mutual benefits of globalization and bilateral cooperation are being hindered by Washington’s policies. Carsten Brzeski, global head of macro at ING, stated that a rebound in German exports to the US is unlikely in the near term.

The decline in German exports to the US can be attributed to the significant tariffs imposed on European goods, with most products facing a 15% tariff and automobiles facing a 25% tariff. This has led to a shift in Germany’s trade dynamics, with China emerging as the country’s leading trading partner. The impact of US tariffs on global trade is likely to continue, with potential long-term consequences for international trade relationships.