Perspectives for a Forward-Looking German International Trade Policy

After the end of the acute phase of the Corona crisis, German foreign trade is again expected to contribute strongly to the economic recovery; however, the framework conditions have changed. To the authors opinion, a new strategy is needed. Like those of other countries, German foreign trade promotion must be guided by the strategic interest of the Federal Republic and not by rules of origin that are often unrealistic. This requires effective integration of development and foreign policy instruments with those of foreign trade policy, both within Germany and at European level. At a time of growing political uncertainty, legalization of economic relations through bilateral, pluri- and multilateral trade agreements is of central importance.