German exports fell sharply at the start of 2026, reversing course after a robust finish to the previous year. In January 2026, exports declined by 2.3% month-over-month, compared with a strong 3.9% increase in December 2025, according to data updated on 10 March 2026.
The shift underscores heightened volatility in Germany’s external sector, with the latest reading marking a notable downturn from the previous month’s momentum. The December figure had reflected a solid rebound in overseas demand, but the negative print in January suggests that this strength did not carry over into the new year.
On a month-over-month basis, the data show a clear loss of short-term export dynamism: while December 2025 exports rose compared with November, January 2026 exports fell compared with December. Investors and policymakers will be watching upcoming releases closely to determine whether January’s drop signals a temporary correction or the beginning of a more persistent soft patch in German trade performance.
