Exporting advice
Digital industry and economy
The digitisation of Germany’s industry and economy will impact on all sectors and enhance opportunities associated with business models, manufacturing processes, digital marketplaces, future mobility and supply chains. There is demand in areas of UK strength such as food and drink, consumer goods, big data, artificial intelligence (AI), cyber security and the internet of things.
Strong economic framework
Germany offers competitive tax regulations, investment incentives and a secure, highly developed political and economic framework. This is supported by an excellent infrastructure, a highly qualified workforce and a legal system that protects property and individual rights. Germany also hosts some of the largest international trade shows, where companies have access to German and international buyers.
Top five UK goods exported to Germany , in the four quarters to the end of Q1 2025
| Goods | Value (£ billion ) |
|---|---|
| Aircraft | |
| Mechanical power generators (intermediate) | |
| Medicinal & pharmaceutical products | |
| Cars | |
| Scientific instruments (capital) |
Source:
ONS Trade in goods: country-by-commodity exports
Last updated: June 2025
Download the latest trade and investment factsheet for Germany.
Germany: at a glance
Economic growth
-0.2%
Actual figure (IMF, 2024)
The UK is 1.1% (IMF, 2024, actual figure)
GDP per capita
$54,990
Actual figure (IMF, 2024)
The UK is $52,648 (IMF, 2024, projected figure)
Currency
Euro
Business languages
German
You may need a translator
Time zone
GMT +1
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Opportunities for exporters
There are opportunities for UK companies across a broad range of industries. Our trade advisers in Germany have identified particular opportunities for UK businesses in the following sectors:
Check for trade barriers
Trade barriers, such as tariffs or taxes, can raise costs, cause delays, or even stop you from exporting. Check for any issues that may impact your business when exporting.
Check duties and customs
Find information on how to export goods from the UK. View the duties, rules, restrictions, and the documents you need for your products.
Doing business in Germany
Preparing to export
VAT
The standard rate of VAT in Germany is 19%. Convenience goods and day-to-day services are charged at 7%. Some services including banking, healthcare and non-profit work are VAT exempt.
Packaging and labelling
Packaging has a strong influence on German consumers and informs how they choose products. It is important to check that your packaging is to German tastes. Please also see the German Packaging Act for guidance.
EU standards apply to packaging. For more information see the 'Check how to export goods' guidance.
Labelling should be translated into German. Certain products, such as food and textiles, have specific labelling requirements.
Payment terms
Standard payment terms for business-to-business transactions are 60 days and 30 days for public authorities. You can claim late payment interest when terms are not met.
Services regulations
Information on rules for selling services and business travel to Germany is available on gov.uk
Trade barriers
Check for any reported barriers to trading with Germany.
Report any trade barriers that are affecting your business so we can help fix them.
Operating in Germany
Routes to market
In a stable and secure market, there's a wide range of routes to market.
Options which may work well for you are:
- agents and distributors
Using local agents or distributors is an effective way to develop a presence in Germany due to the size of the market. German is the language of business and fluency is a major advantage for your company when using local partners.
- direct sales
Due to the relative closeness of the market, direct sales are possible. However, the need for German language skills should be considered. Ensuring full coverage of the whole market could be a challenge.
- e-commerce
Selling online or through e-marketplaces may be a good option for your company. It’s relatively cheap and easy to deliver products into Germany. DBT can suggest online marketplaces to help you get started. DBT’s E-Exporting Programme can also help.
For further information or a direct inquiry, get in touch with us.
Business culture
German firms are often family-owned and take a longer-term view. They value personal relationships highly.
Often businesses will not necessarily go for best price, but for long-term shared vision or relationship.
Business people will be well prepared for meetings, and will have carefully researched your products and services.
Intellectual property
Intellectual property (IP) rights are territorial and rights granted in the UK do not provide protection elsewhere. You should consider getting IP protection abroad if you want to trade overseas or sell to overseas customers via the internet.
The Intellectual Property Office provides practical information to help you protect, manage and enforce your IP abroad. Further support for British businesses can be found through a network of IP attachés, based in key UK export markets.
Next steps
Get ready to do business abroad
Step-by-step lessons to accelerate your exporting ability.
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