German economy shrinks for first time since 2015

Europe's largest economy hit by weaker trade position and lower consumer spending

Fears for the health of the eurozone economy have intensified after Germany, the single currency's powerhouse, suffered its first contraction in more than three years.

Tough emission tests affecting the country's strategically important automotive industry, lower consumer spending, and weaker exports triggered by rising global protectionism resulted in the economy shrinking by 0.2% in the third quarter of 2018.