Plastics production in Germany recorded significant growth in the first quarter of 2025, according to the Association of Plastics Manufacturers, Plastics Europe Deutschland (PED).
 

According to the PED's quarterly report 1/2025, seasonally adjusted production of plastics in primary form rose by 4.5 per cent compared with the previous quarter. The drivers are said to be increased domestic demand and stronger orders from core industrial sectors such as food and automotive. However, industry turnover rose only slightly by 0.3 per cent compared with the previous quarter to around 6.5 billion euros due to increased production and lower producer prices. Foreign trade in primary plastics recovered significantly in the first quarter, however. According to PED, both exports and imports rose strongly. According to the report, exports rose by over 17 per cent compared with the previous quarter to around 7.1 billion euros. Exports rose to all regions, with particularly strong growth in the EU 27 and other European countries. Imports of plastics in primary form also rose strongly according to the quarterly report, amounting to 4.5 billion euros in the first quarter. The trade balance for plastics (exports minus imports) was positive at 2.6 billion euros. According to PED, this increase is attributable to the weak final quarter of 2024 and to advance and new industrial orders placed out of concern about new trade barriers. Industrial production in Germany rose by 1.8 per cent in the first quarter, according to PED. Industrial production was also showing signs of recovery in Europe, the industry's most important market. However, the environment remains uncertain: fluctuating energy prices, impending tariffs and a weakening global economy do not currently give cause for excessive optimism, says PED.
 
Sources:

• PED press release
• Image: © PED (title of quarterly report 1/2025)