German economy gets boost from consumers, exports

Frankfurt

GERMANY restored its position as Europe's economic powerhouse last quarter as domestic spending surged and trade contributed to growth.

Gross domestic product (GDP) in the region's largest economy expanded 0.7 per cent in the three months through December, the Federal Statistics Office said on Tuesday, confirming a Feb 13 estimate. Private consumption climbed 0.8 per cent, capital investment rose 1.2 per cent and exports jumped 1.3 per cent.