German exports to Russia and China rise significantly
In the second quarter of 2004, German exports to Russia and China rose sharply as strong global demand continued to drive the recovery of Europe's largest economy. The data released by the Federal Statistics Office shows that exports to China rose by 27.9% from a year earlier in April-June period to €5.8 billion while exports to Russia surged by 18.9% to €3.6 billion. Germany's economy has relied on exports for growth this year because of weak domestic demand. The thriving export trade to both countries was led by strong sales of machinery, chemicals, automobiles and auto parts.