Drop in German trade activity feeds into global stimulus debate

Berlin

GERMAN trade activity slowed abruptly in June, adding to signs that demand in leading economies may be starting to flag just as central banks consider scaling back years of stimulus.

Exports from Europe's biggest economy fell by 2.8 per cent, the biggest drop since August 2015 and one that ended five straight months of growth. Imports sank by 4.5 per cent, the biggest drop since January 2009, the Federal Statistics Office said.