The European Union recorded stronger international goods trade in the second quarter of 2026, with both imports and exports increasing compared with the previous quarter and the same period in 2025.
The European Union imported €701.8 billion in goods from countries outside the bloc, while exports reached €680.0 billion. Imports increased by 9.9% compared with the previous quarter and by 11.7% compared with the second quarter of 2025. Exports rose by 5.4% quarter on quarter and 4.5% year on year.
From a supply chain perspective, China remained the European Union’s largest source of imported goods, providing €153.6 billion, or 21.9% of total imports from outside the bloc. The United States followed with €98.7 billion, while the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Türkiye also remained important supply partners.
Imports from the United States, United Kingdom, China and Switzerland all increased compared with the second quarter of 2025. These developments highlight the continued role of international sourcing networks in supporting European manufacturing, distribution and consumer markets.
The United States remained the European Union’s largest export destination, receiving €127.7 billion in goods, equivalent to 18.8% of total exports. The United Kingdom followed with €92.7 billion, while Switzerland, China and Türkiye also ranked among the leading destinations.
Exports to Switzerland recorded particularly strong growth of 16.1% compared with the second quarter of 2025. Exports to the United Kingdom and China also increased during the period.
The latest trade figures highlight the broad network connecting European businesses with international suppliers and markets. Stronger two-way trade activity supports sourcing, production, logistics and distribution across multiple regions, reinforcing the importance of diversified and well-connected global supply chains.
#InternationalTrade #EuropeanTrade #GlobalTrade #SupplyChain #TradeFlows #ImportExport #GlobalSupplyChains #TradeStatistics #MarketTrends #InternationalCommerce
