What impact do imports and exports have on national economies? How do nations and economies control economic and, thereby implied, social developments? In particular in times of almost unlimited globalization permanent changes regarding the trade balance are a decisive factor. With industrial nations on the one hand, and emerging and developing countries on the other the question is who benefits from and who suffers setbacks? Causes and interactions are seemingly as limitless as the world market. In order to take a look at the bigger picture detailed analyses allow shedding light on crucial aspects.

The focus of this study is as to what direct effects international trade has on the manufacturing sector in Germany. Wages and employment opportunities show to what degree the country as well as individual regions and sectors react to foreign trade.

 

import penetration and employment in selected countries