Germany recorded a 0.5% rise in exports in March, outperforming expectations of a decline, with stronger demand from EU countries where shipments increased by 3.4%.

At the same time, industrial output moved in the opposite direction, falling instead of rising as earlier projected, mainly due to reduced energy production and weaker performance in machinery and equipment manufacturing.

Analysts say the data reflects a mixed picture, with export resilience alongside pressure on production, as uncertainties linked to the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing tensions in the Iran situation continue to affect supply chains and energy costs.

Exports to the United States dropped by 7.9% during the month, although it remained Germany’s largest export destination at €11.2 billion.

Imports rose sharply by 5.1%, with China accounting for the largest share at €15.6 billion.

As a result, Germany’s trade surplus declined significantly, falling to €14.3 billion from €19.6 billion recorded in February.