BERLIN: German industrial production slipped unexpectedly in 2014 and exports fell more sharply than predicted as Europe’s largest economy weakened near the end of 2014.Exports dropped 2.1 percent in November compared with the previous month to 95.2 billion euros ($113 billion).
The statistical office also reported that factory production dropped 0.1 percent in November from the previous month in seasonally adjusted terms. Economists had been predicting a 0.3 percent rise.
However, the office revised its October production figure upward to a 0.6 percent month-on-month increase from the original reading of 0.2 percent.ING-DiBa economist Carsten Brzeski said the releases provide “further evidence that the German economy has not yet fully recovered from the soft spell of the summer.”
But, he said, “the economy should gain more momentum in the coming months.”
Germany is expected to show modest fourth-quarter growth. Year-end GDP figures for Germany, Europe’s largest economy, are due on Jan. 15.Bellingham Herald is pleased to provide this opportunity to share information, experiences and observations about what’s in the news. Some of the comments may be reprinted elsewhere in the site or in the newspaper. We encourage lively, open debate on the issues of the day, and ask that you refrain from profanity, hate speech, personal comments and remarks that are off point. Thank you for taking the time to offer your thoughts.
