Germany Lowers 2026 Economic Growth Forecast to 1% Amid Slow Recovery Efforts
The German government has revised its 2026 GDP growth forecast down to 1%, indicating slower-than-expected economic recovery. Chancellor Friedrich Merz's administration had previously estimated a growth of 1.3%.
The economy, which returned to 0.2% growth in 2025 after two consecutive years of recession, faces challenges including high energy costs, weak global demand, and competition from China. The government is pursuing structural reforms and a 500 billion-euro fund for infrastructure improvements, while also increasing defense spending.
However, concerns remain about the pace of these reforms and the effectiveness of fiscal measures. The forecast for 2027 has also been adjusted down to 1.3% from 1.4%. Two-thirds of the expected growth in 2026 is attributed to government fiscal stimulus.
