German exports and factory output beat forecasts in June
German exports and industrial production rose more than expected in June, signaling renewed momentum in the second quarter.
Germany's export sector and industrial production both outperformed expectations in June, offering fresh evidence that Europe's largest economy picked up pace during the second quarter.
Exports climbed 0.9% month-on-month on a calendar and seasonally adjusted basis, according to data released by the federal statistics office on Friday. Analysts had forecast a more modest increase of 0.2%.
Imports rose even more sharply, jumping 4.4% compared with May. Over the first half of the year, exports were up 3.7% and imports 4.4% against the same period in 2025.
Trade with the European Union proved resilient, with exports to EU countries rising 1.3% from the previous month. Shipments to non-EU destinations increased by a smaller 0.3%. However, exports to the United States fell sharply, dropping 14.2% on the month.
Separately, industrial production edged up 0.2% in June versus May, slightly ahead of the 0.1% rise predicted by economists.
The production data follows Thursday's report showing industrial orders grew 3.1% in June, though the gain was largely driven by large-scale orders.