The DBC has lowered its export forecasts for German companies

A survey released by the DBC on May 5th shows that, affected by the situation in the Middle East, particularly the conflict with Iran, German companies’ export expectations have shifted from slight growth to stagnation. Nearly one-third of respondents believe the conflict exacerbates the fragility of global supply chains, and the proportion of companies expecting an economic downturn has risen from 24% to 32%.

Key Risks Facing Companies

Energy Cost Pressures: 46% of companies listed high energy costs as a core risk, a significant increase compared to last autumn.

Multiple Intertwined Risks: 44% are concerned about weakening demand, 40% are focused on supply chain disruptions, and 37% are focused on rising raw material prices.

Combined Pressures: Chief analyst Volker Treier pointed out that energy prices, logistical fragility, and geopolitical uncertainty are collectively suppressing the investment intentions of export-oriented companies.