US tariffs may ruin Christmas for German gingerbread factory

Lambertz Chocolate Factory in Aachen, Germany, produces millions of festive treats like gingerbread and chocolate-covered cookies, even during Europe's summer heat waves. With €100 million worth of goods ready to ship, 25% of production is exported, contributing to Germany’s strong global sweets trade.

However, rising ingredient and energy costs and new 15% US tariffs on EU imports threaten Lambertz's profitability. Owner Hermann Bühlbecker faces uncertainty over who will absorb these added costs, as shipments already en route to the US lack tariff clauses in their contracts.

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.