According to preliminary foreign trade statistics from the Federal Statistical Office, German furniture exports reached around €8.2 billion in 2025, remaining virtually unchanged from the previous year (+0.1 %). After declines in 2023 and 2024, this marks an important sign of stability for Germany's overseas business.
"Given the current weakness of the domestic market, we are heavily reliant on our foreign business," commented Jan Kurth.
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Regional Developments
- France: stable at €1.3 billion
- Switzerland: +3.5 % to €1.2 billion
- Italy: +9.3 %
- Spain: +7.7 % supported by growing residential construction
Declines were recorded in Austria, the Netherlands, the UK and Belgium
In the United States, Germany's tenth-largest export market, deliveries fell by just under 6 % to €238 million. The German kitchen furniture sector was particularly affected (-17 % to €41.5 million) due to US tariff policies.
Outside Europe, results were mixed:
- China: -30 %
- Saudi Arabia: +13 %
- United Arab Emirates: +22 %
Imports and Market Pressure
Furniture imports into Germany rose by 10.3 % to €10.7 billion, primarily from China (+9.3 %). Kurth noted that US tariff policies have indirectly contributed to increased price pressure on the German market.
Outlook
The German furniture industry anticipates a modest recovery in export activity for 2026. Already, the fourth quarter of 2025 showed signs of a revival. Overall, the sector generated 34 % of its revenue from abroad in 2025.
Contacts:
Christine Scharrenbroch / [email protected] / +49 2224 9377-17
Melanie Dickenbrok / [email protected] / +49 5221 1265-26
More information:
moebelindustrie
www.moebelindustrie.de
