The German Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) reported a significant surge in firework imports during the first nine months of 2025, raising critical questions about national consumption patterns, economic reliance on China and the ongoing debate surrounding private firework regulations. Data reveals that between January and September 2025, over 42,400 tonnes of fireworks were imported, a staggering 62.6% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
This dramatic rise surpasses even pre-pandemic levels, exceeding the 2019 figure of 29,800 tonnes by 42.4%. The substantial increase is understood to be a rebound effect following years of restricted sales and import volumes during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the scale of the current surge has renewed calls for a more rigorous evaluation of the ecological and safety implications of widespread firework usage.
The overwhelming majority of these imports originate from China, accounting for 98% of all fireworks entering Germany between January and September 2025. This near-total reliance on a single supplier has amplified concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities and potential geopolitical implications. Germany’s dependence on Chinese imports for fireworks has remained consistently above 90% for the past two decades, a factor now under increased scrutiny amidst broader discussions surrounding reshoring strategies and diversifying international trade.
Conversely, German exports of fireworks have witnessed a substantial decline. Only 671 tonnes were exported between January and September 2025, a 28.7% decrease from the previous year, further highlighting the nation’s net importing status in the pyrotechnics market. The stark contrast between import volumes and export figures – a situation more pronounced than in pre-pandemic 2019 when 1,980 tonnes were exported – underscores a shift in the German market and fuels the ongoing political debate about whether to re-evaluate current firework regulations. Critics argue that the current import trends necessitate a comprehensive review of safety measures and environmental impact, while proponents of private firework usage maintain its importance for cultural traditions and economic benefits.
