German Firms See Record Trade Barriers as Global Tensions Rise

German companies are facing the steepest trade hurdles in decades, driven by rising geopolitical tensions and growing protectionism, according to a survey by the country’s DIHK industry lobby.

A record 69% of the 2,400 firms polled reported an increase in trade barriers for their international operations, up from 58% the previous year, DIHK said in a statement on Tuesday.