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Germany's export-led growth model is exhausted and cannot withstand a structural break without risking prolonged stagnation

Executive summary: In a Handelsblatt podcast, economists Stefan Hüther and Bert Rürup discussed Germany's economic challenges, noting six years without growth and industrial production 10% below pre-crisis levels, with state stimulus now the sole source of growth impetus. The debate questions the viability of Germany's export-dependent business model, raising concerns about long-term competitiveness and the need for structural adaptation to avoid sustained economic underperformance.

Who is involved: Stefan Hüther (Director of the German Economic Institute), Bert Rürup (economist and former head of the German Council of Economic Experts), and Handelsblatt editors.

Likely next: Continued public debate on reforming Germany’s growth model, potential policy proposals for industrial modernization, and increased scrutiny of state reliance in driving economic activity.

The focal podcast highlights six years of zero growth, industrial production still 10% below pre-crisis levels, and state-driven growth as the only remaining impetus. Experts Rürup and Hüther debate whether Germany’s traditional business model — reliant on exports and industrial strength — has a future amid weakening global demand and domestic structural rigidities. The discussion underscores growing concern that without fundamental adaptation, the economy faces a prolonged period of underperformance.

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