20:18 25 April 2026
Analysis: industry in Germany falling while Poland grows
Germany has a few rising sectors such as pharmaceuticals and computer manufacturing, but not enough to replace its old industrial model. A modest recovery is likely, driven by higher infrastructure and defense spending, which will boost investment and consumption. Still, structural issues remain.
Out of 25 industrial sectors analyzed, 20 are producing less than their 2015 to 2019 average. Major declines include clothing at -36.2%, furniture at -30.1%, autos and parts at -21.2%, chemicals at -20.8%, and metals at -19.1%. These industries once formed the backbone of Germany’s export strength, and such drops suggest lost capacity that may take years to rebuild, if at all.
Some sectors are growing, including electronics at +12.1%, pharmaceuticals at +10.2%, and transport equipment at +27.5%, but these gains reflect global demand or regulation rather than competitiveness. Meanwhile, Poland’s industrial output has grown 11.5% since 2021, while Germany’s fell 7.7% y/y, showing Poland is becoming less dependent on Germany’s economic cycle.
(pb.pl)
