The German economy shrank during the April to June period of this year, with a decline in exports dampening growth.

According to data released by the Federal Statistics Office, GDP fell by 0.1% compared to the previous quarter. This takes the growth rate down to 0.4% in the year to June - its slowest for six years.

Germany's traditionally export-reliant economy has been particularly vulnerable to the global slowdown amplified by tariff conflicts, turmoil in the German carmaking industry and fallout from Brexit.

A slowdown in foreign trade and drop in construction were partly offset by growth in household and government spending.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's government still believes the economy will grow slightly this year and does not think further stimulus is necessary.

"As the chancellor has already laid out, the government does not currently see any need for further measures to stabilise the economy - the fiscal policy of the German government is already expansive," a government spokeswoman said.

Economy Minister Peter Altmaier said Germany was not in a recession and could avoid one by taking the right measures.