Germany's iron, steel, and aluminium exports to the United States have dipped in early 2025 following sharp tariff hikes, signalling potential disruptions for industries reliant on these core materials, such as interior design, furniture manufacturing, and architectural fit-outs.
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According to Destatis, the Federal Statistical Office, 'iron and steel and products made from these materials worth €1.3 billion were exported from Germany to the United States from January to April 2025,' marking a 0.4% decline compared to the same period in 2024. This decline, though modest, reflects a broader 4.2% fall in total German iron and steel exports, which stood at €20.7 billion for the same period.
On 12 March 2025, the US imposed an additional 25% tariff on metal imports, which rose to 50% on 4 June. Despite these barriers, '6.1% of all German iron and steel exports go to the USA,' placing it sixth among destination markets, behind key EU partners like Poland, France and the Netherlands.
Aluminium exports followed a similar trend. From January to April 2025, aluminium exports to the US dropped by 1.8%, to €218 million. The US accounted for just 3.4% of total German aluminium exports. Meanwhile, EU countries like France, Austria, and Poland dominated the top importer rankings.
With metals being foundational to the production of furnishings, lighting, hardware, and structural interiors, these changes could strain supply chains in the B2B interiors sector. While domestic EU demand remains strong, the added tariff costs and redirection of exports may challenge pricing, sourcing, and design timelines for manufacturers and specifiers alike. The full impact on the sector will hinge on geopolitical stability and evolving trade policies in the months ahead.
More information:
Destatis
www.destatis.de