Wholesale prices in Germany accelerated their upward trend in November 2025, according to data released Monday by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis). The index rose 1.5% year-on-year, a noticeable increase from the 1.1% rise recorded in October and the 1.2% increase observed in September. Month-on-month, prices edged up 0.3%.
The primary driver of this overall inflation in the wholesale sector was a significant surge in the cost of food and beverages, including tobacco products. These prices were, on average, 3.2% higher than in November 2024, raising concerns about potential inflationary pressures trickling down to consumers. While these prices dipped slightly (-0.2%) compared to October 2025, the sustained increase year-on-year is particularly concerning.
Specific commodities experiencing dramatic price escalations include coffee, tea, cocoa and spices, which saw a staggering 21.9% increase compared to November 2024. Sugar, confectionery and baked goods also contributed significantly to the inflation rate, costing 12.3% more than a year prior. Meat, meat products and live animals demonstrated substantial price hikes as well, at 7.3% and 4.8% respectively.
Beyond the food sector, the wholesale trade in non-ferrous ores, metals and semi-finished products witnessed a considerable price increase of 28.1% year-on-year, alongside a 3.5% month-on-month rise. This surge raises questions about the impact on industrial production and potentially on the broader economic outlook.
Conversely, wholesale prices for grains, raw tobacco, seeds and animal feed were down 5.9% compared to November 2024, although they did experience a 1.4% increase compared to October 2025. Recycled materials and waste also saw a beneficial decline, both year-on-year and month-on-month.
The escalating wholesale prices, particularly in food and industrial materials, are fueling debate within the German government. Critics argue that insufficient measures to address supply chain vulnerabilities and over-reliance on imported goods may be contributing to the inflationary pressure. The recent data is likely to intensify calls for a review of trade policies and a renewed focus on bolstering domestic production, although the long-term consequences of such a shift remain uncertain.