Is Global Trade Shifting to Europe?

For decades, the United States has been the most important trading partner in the world, due to its vast market for goods and the relative wealth of its more than 340 million consumers. However, with increasing tariff pressures from the U.S., its partners are being pushed away and are searching for other, more stable markets to trade with (Politico, April 22, 2025).

One group of countries that is looking for new trade relationships is the European Union. The EU is one of the largest trading blocs in the world and boasts a market of approximately 450 million people. In recent comments, EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen observed, “In a more and more unpredictable global environment, countries are lining up to work with us.” President von der Leyen went on to suggest, “In the middle of the chaos, Europe stands firm, grounded in values, ready to shape what comes next.” The EU is currently in trade talks with Iceland, New Zealand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Canada, India, and the United Arab Emirates, and von der Leyen is said to be planning a trip to China.

Why is world trade shifting from the U.S. to Europe important? Bible prophecy reveals that at the end of this age, a European “beast” power, headed by Germany, will have a powerful influence on global trade and seek to lead the world economically. This financial juggernaut will dominate the world for a time. However, it will also quickly come to an end, and the nations made rich through trading with it will mourn its downfall (Revelation 18:9–20). We may now be witnessing the rise of this new economic superpower in Europe. To learn more about what is to come, you can read or listen to The Beast of Revelation: Myth, Metaphor, or Soon-Coming Reality?