Außenwirtschaftliche

Außenwirtschaftliche refers to matters of Außenwirtschaft, the external economy or foreign trade relations of a country. In policy, economics and business language, it denotes actions, policies or structures that affect economic exchange with other countries.

The scope includes foreign trade in goods and services (Außenhandel), cross-border investments such as foreign direct investment and portfolio investment, technology transfer and licensing, and other cross-border economic activities and financial flows. It also covers regulatory instruments such as export controls, sanctions, and investment screening, as well as measures to promote exports and international competitiveness.

In Germany and the European Union, Außenwirtschaft policy is shaped by EU trade policy and international agreements, while national authorities implement export promotion and control regimes. Key institutions include the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) and the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA), as well as state banks and export credit agencies. Internationally, the World Trade Organization (WTO) and bilateral or regional trade agreements provide the rule set for Außenwirtschaft.

Statistics dealing with Außenwirtschaft include the Außenhandel (foreign trade) balance, import and export volumes, and the composition of trade by partner country and by sector. The term also appears in discussions of supply chains, resilience, sanctions regimes, and the strategic management of economic relations with other countries.