In the second quarter, plastics production declines in Germany

Plastics production in Germany declined in the second quarter of 2025. According to Plastics Europe Deutschland, the association of plastics producers, production of plastics in primary forms fell by 4.3 percent compared to the previous quarter and was 6.2 percent below the previous year's figure. Producer prices fell by 0.6 percent, or 2.4 percent year-on-year. Industry sales decreased by 2.4 percent to approximately 6.3 billion euros.

Exports of plastics in primary forms fell by 6.7 percent, while imports rose to 4.6 billion euros. The trade surplus shrank but remained positive at 2.1 billion euros. The association does not expect the situation to improve in the coming months. "The stagnation has not yet been overcome," explained Christine Bunte (in the picture), Managing Director of Plastics Europe Deutschland. "The structural deficits of Germany as a manufacturing location have been developing for years. The federal government has begun to address the root causes, such as high energy prices and bureaucratic burdens, and it will take time for these to take effect. However, the reforms must be implemented much more consistently. Plastics producers in Germany will need to be patient."

Against the backdrop of the poor quarterly figures, the industry is turning its attention to Düsseldorf in October. At K 2025, the most important international trade fair for the plastics industry, the circular economy and competitiveness will be the focus. "The innovative spirit of the companies remains unbroken. Despite all the economic difficulties, we are seeing new initiatives being implemented, be it in changing the raw material base, reducing the CO2 footprint of products, or AI-supported formulation development. K 2025 will show how the industry compares internationally and how it can regain its momentum," added Bunte. Plastics Europe will present the industry report "Plastics – the Fast Facts" at a press conference on October 8. The annual report contains the latest figures on plastics production in Europe.