German Industry in Decline as Cheap Energy and Competitiveness Wane

Germany's manufacturing output declining since 2017, underscoring its fading status as an industrial superpower
Loss of cheap Russian gas deals blow to heavy manufacturers, forcing plant closures and job cuts
Lack of reforms and government paralysis prevents investments needed to improve competitiveness
Education system shortcomings and aging workforce hampering economy's growth potential
China becoming bigger rival, sapping demand for German goods while also offering cheap competition domestically