According to the latest report released by the German Economic Institute (IW) on Friday, trade in goods between the European Union and the U.S. hit a record €875 billion ($1.00 trillion) last year despite tariffs. However, the figures conceal substantial economic damage, especially to Germany’s auto industry.
IW reported a 7.7% increase in EU exports to the U.S., reaching €580 billion, while U.S. imports into the EU grew by 2.2% to €295 billion, resulting in the EU’s trade surplus nearing €285 billion.
EU car and parts exports to the U.S. dropped 20.4% in 2025, with Germany—responsible for nearly two-thirds of EU auto exports to the U.S.—declining by 18.9%.
Ireland saw a 52.7% increase in exports, fueled by tariff-free pharmaceutical and chemical products.
Most EU member states experienced a decrease in their goods exports to the U.S. The only exceptions were Ireland, which was stable, and the Czech Republic (+5.1%), Italy (+7.2%), Denmark (+10.6%), and Finland (+10.8%), all of which reported growth.
Intellectual property fees accounted for more than 40% of EU service imports from the U.S., rising 13.7%.
EU imports of travel services from the U.S. decreased by about 8%.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
