The Major Imports of Germany - International Trade Council (2024)

Mineral Fuels and Oils:

Mineral fuels and oils hold the top position in Germany's imports by volume. With a total import value of approximately $110 billion, Germany heavily relies on these imports to meet its energy needs. The primary trading partners for mineral fuels and oils are Russia, the Netherlands, and Norway.

Machinery and Mechanical Appliances:

Imported machinery and mechanical appliances are crucial for supporting Germany's industrial and manufacturing sectors. The import volume for this category stands at $100 billion. The primary trading partners for machinery and mechanical appliances are China, the United States, and Italy.

Vehicles and Automotive Parts:

Imported vehicles and automotive parts play a significant role in Germany's automobile industry. The import volume for this category is valued at $90 billion. The primary trading partners for vehicle and automotive parts imports are the Czech Republic, China, and the United States.

Electrical Machinery and Equipment:

Imported electrical machinery and equipment are essential for meeting Germany's technological needs. The import volume for this category is valued at $80 billion. The primary trading partners in this sector are China, the United States, and the Netherlands.

Pharmaceuticals:

Pharmaceutical products are essential for Germany's healthcare sector. The import volume for this category stands at $60 billion. The primary trading partners for pharmaceutical imports are Switzerland, the United States, and Ireland.

Plastics and Plastic Articles:

Germany imports a significant amount of plastics and plastic articles for various industries. This category accounts for an import volume of $50 billion. The primary trading partners for plastics and plastic articles are the Netherlands, China, and Italy.

Iron and Steel:

Imported iron and steel are vital for Germany's construction and manufacturing industries. This category's import volume is valued at $40 billion. The primary trading partners for iron and steel imports are the Netherlands, China, and Italy.

Organic Chemicals:

Germany imports a considerable volume of organic chemicals for various applications. The import value for this category is approximately $30 billion. The primary trading partners for organic chemicals are the United States, the Netherlands, and China.

Articles of Clothing and Accessories:

Germany imports a significant volume of clothing and accessories to meet its domestic market demands. The import value for this category is approximately $25 billion. The primary trading partners for clothing and apparel imports are China, Turkey, and Bangladesh.

Optical, Photographic, and Medical Instruments:

Germany relies on imports of optical, photographic, and medical instruments to support its healthcare and research sectors. The import volume for this category stands at $20 billion. The primary trading partners for optical, photographic, and medical instruments are Switzerland, the United States, and the Netherlands.