The German government trimmed its economic growth forecast for this year to 2.3 percent on Wednesday, though it said the outlook remains good and is predicting that growth next year will be almost as strong. The new forecast is slightly lower than the government's prediction in January of 2.4 percent growth in 2018. However, he voiced concern about developments in international trade relations and noted that Germany is a major exporter. The European Union is seeking a continued exemption from new tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on steel and aluminum imports. "I think any growth in the region of 2 percent or above is exceptionally good growth, if you compare it with the history of the last 10-15 years in Germany."

Source: ABC News April 25, 2018 10:18 UTC