Q3 Growth Bolsters Germany in Showdown Over Trade

A robust rise in domestic demand overshadowed weak exports to drive a 0.3 percent expansion in the German economy in the third quarter, giving the government ammunition in its showdown with Brussels over euro zone trade imbalances.

The European Commission is investigating Germany's persistently high current account surplus amid criticism that it relies too heavily on exports, yet Friday's breakdown showed that net trade deducted 0.4 percentage points from third-quarter growth.

“With today's data the latest criticism on the German growth model looks a bit like crying over spilled milk,” said Carsten Brzeski, senior economist at ING. “The often called for rebalancing of the economy is already taking place.”

Domestic demand was the main growth driver, rising 0.7 percent in the quarter. Investment, which began the year sluggishly, rose by a robust 3.0 percent, propelled by a strong increase in construction.

Private consumption added 0.1 percentage points to GDP. A robust labor market, moderate inflation and strong wage hikes have boosted household spending in Germany.

Berlin is relying on domestic demand to prop up growth this year as the traditionally export-driven economy suffers from the weakening demand from its euro zone partners and a slowdown in emerging markets.

The German economy put in a stellar performance during the early years of the euro zone crisis but growth slowed last year. After...