German exports fall unexpectedly in August

(Sharecast News) - Germany's exports slipped by an unexpected 0.8% in August, according to official data published on Thursday, as weaker demand across key markets weighed on monthly trade flows.

After seasonal and calendar adjustment, outbound shipments continued to lose momentum following a modest rise in July. Analysts had forecast a 0.6% rise.

Imports fell 1.2%, leaving the trade balance broadly stable on the month. The Federal statistics office said lower purchases of intermediate goods and energy contributed to the decline, reflecting softer industrial activity and easing price pressures.

Germany exported €137.6bn worth of goods, while imports totalled €118.1bn, leaving a monthly trade surplus of €19.5bn.

Trade with EU partners weakened, with exports to the euro area down 0.7% and imports off 1.5%. Shipments to non‑EU countries also dipped, including a fall in exports to the US and China, though sales to other regions showed pockets of resilience.

Nominal trade values were affected by lower prices, particularly in energy‑related goods, with the overall trade surplus holding at €21.6bn after adjustment.

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com