National exports are an engine of regional output and employment growth, a new study has found. The research was carried out by leading economics consultancy LE Europe and commissioned by AmCham EU. All EU-27 regions benefitted from the growth in exports over the past decade, regardless of their GDP level. The economic analysis shows that on average a 1% increase in national exports leads to a 0.9% increase in local jobs and output. Stronger regional economic performance is driven by a host of factors, including manufacturing base, transport and communications infrastructure, innovation ecosystems and education level.
New research shows all EU regions benefit from exports
National exports are an engine of regional output and employment growth, a new study has found. The research was carried out by leading economics consultancy LE Europe and commissioned by AmCham EU. All EU-27 regions benefitted from the growth in exports over the past decade, regardless of their GDP level. The economic analysis shows that on average a 1% increase in national exports leads to a 0.9% increase in local jobs and output. Stronger regional economic performance is driven by a host of factors, including manufacturing base, transport and communications infrastructure, innovation ecosystems and education level.
Commenting on the study’s findings, Susan Danger, CEO, AmCham EU, said: ‘The international trading system delivers prosperity to all corners of the European Union. Exporting beyond national borders drives jobs and economic welfare in the local regions of Europe. Without regard for wealth or development, all EU regions stand to benefit from an increase in exports.’ She went on to say: ‘With 36 million jobs supported directly by exports to the rest of the world, local communities really can thrive when they engage with the international economy through exports. Policymakers and businesses must now make the case for global trade.’
The study seeks to address the lack of data on the regional impact of international export activity, a major challenge for pan-European research. It relies on an input-output analysis that extrapolates the export performance of national industries to the industrial profile of local regions within each Member State.
The report also contains a range of case studies from a broad cross-section of European regions as well as testimonials from local businesses who benefit from being integrated into international supply chains.
Visit our platform
Download the full report
Download the supplement with regional case studies
Explore the key findings
Read the frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Related items
:focal())
News
22 Dec 2025
No further delays: the EU-Mercosur FTA is vital for a stronger Europe
The European Council’s decision to postpone its vote on concluding the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement (FTA) is a missed strategic opportunity that threatens the EU’s credibility as a reliable partner. After more than 20 years of negotiations, the EU is once again delaying one of its most ambitious and strategic trade agreements.
The EU-Mercosur FTA’s economic benefits are clear. At a time when strengthening competitiveness, economic growth and partnerships should be paramount, the FTA provides access to a market of 284 million consumers – reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers and supporting integrated supply chains.
Beyond its economic benefits, the EU-Mercosur FTA is also an important geopolitical tool. It would anchor a long-term strategic partnership with a key region and reinforce the EU’s role as a credible advocate of rules-based trade. Amid heightened geopolitical rivalry, postponement weakens the EU’s standing and its ability to conclude ambitious FTAs elsewhere.
The EU cannot afford further delays. The EU-Mercosur FTA is vital for the region’s competitiveness, resilience and global credibility. The European Council must promptly return to this file and conclude this FTA in January.
:focal())
News
27 Nov 2025
Advocating for open, rules-based trade in Strasbourg
On Tuesday, 25 and Wednesday, 26 November 2025, AmCham EU travelled to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France. Over the two-day programme, the delegation met with nearly a dozen MEPs and advisors for an exchange on the future of EU trade policy. Discussions centred on the importance of transatlantic cooperation, the ratification of the EU-Mercosur agreement and the implementation of the EU-US Framework Agreement. Members underlined the need for an ambitious EU trade agenda that ensures market access, reduces tariff and non-tariff barriers and strengthens the resilience of European industry. The delegation also called for a swift adoption of the Commission’s proposal on tariff reduction on US industrial goods and reiterated the importance of a pragmatic, forward-looking transatlantic agenda that promotes predictability and economic security.
:focal(610x264:611x265))
News
1 Oct 2025
Examining where transatlantic trade goes from here with POLITICO
At the POLITICO Competitive Europe Summit, Malte Lohan, CEO, AmCham EU reiterated the need for swift implementation of the EU-US Framework Agreement and renewed its call for greater simplification of EU rules. Mr Lohan expressed cautious support for the deal, noting its role in avoiding damaging escalation and restoring a degree of predictability. He also underscored the importance of reducing regulatory burdens, highlighting simplification as a strategic priority for competitiveness. With the priority now on timely tariff reductions, regulatory cooperation and simplification, find out how our members see the deal evolving.
Mr Lohan was joined by Matthias Jørgensen, Head of Unit, USA and Canada, Directorate-General for Trade, European Commission and Jovita Neliupšienė, EU Ambassador to the US
Policy priorities
Insights and advocacy driving Europe’s policy agenda. Our priorities support growth, innovation and a stronger transatlantic economy.
Membership
Connecting business and policymakers to strengthen the voice of American companies in Europe.