Majority of German Companies Question US Reliability as Trade Partner Ahead of 2026 Midterms

As the 2026 US Midterm elections approach, a recent survey by the German Digital Association Bitkom reveals substantial skepticism among German companies regarding the United States' reliability as a political and trade partner. Conducted among 602 firms with at least 20 employees, the survey found that 59% view the US as unreliable or not reliable at all politically, while only 14% consider the US very reliable.

Dependence on US technology remains significant, with 87% of companies relying on US digital technologies feeling dependent, and 47% indicating strong reliance. Concerns about Germany's digital dependency on the US were expressed by 73% of all surveyed firms.

Looking ahead, expectations for changes in US trade policy post-Midterms are mixed: 30% anticipate improved reliability, 51% foresee no change, and 13% expect deteriorating trustworthiness. Bitkom President Dr. Ralf Wintergerst emphasized the critical importance of dependable transatlantic cooperation for the German economy, noting that reliability has diminished and must be restored. He further highlighted that transatlantic collaboration will strengthen as Europe reaches technological and economic parity with the US.

These findings underscore the precarious balance in German-American trade relations amid political uncertainties in the US, reflecting cautious optimism but also highlighting the need for strengthened partnerships in an evolving global economic landscape.