Fireworks imports continue to rise in Germany after pandemic-era ban

The amount of fireworks being imported into Germany remains noticeably below the pre-coronavirus pandemic levels, although it has risen so far this year compared to 2023, according to new government figures released on Tuesday.

Through the first three quarters of 2024, Germans imported a total of 25,900 tons of fireworks, 6.8% more than during the same period in the previous year, according to the Federal Statistical Office.

But in 2019, the last full year before the pandemic struck, the figure for the first three quarters was 29,800 tons.

China supplies 99% of imported firecrackers and rockets. More are likely to be ordered in the final quarter, which includes the lead-up to the New Year holiday, when many in Germany like to set off large quantities of fireworks.

Authorities banned the sale of fireworks in Germany during the coronavirus pandemic as part of an effort to avoid injuries that would require care from overburdened hospitals.

That ban was lifted and, despite repeated debates about environmental and safety risks, there was a strong resurgence in sales in 2023.

That rebound is continuing in the current year.

German fireworks producers export only a tiny quantity compared to total imports. Through the first three quarters of 2024, German producers exported around 1,000 tons, a drop from the previous year.