The totality of economic and business contacts between two or more countries, regions, or companies, involving the exchange of goods and services. The word is usually used in the plural.
example
Deutschland und China pflegen intensive Handelsbeziehungen.
Germany and China maintain intensive trade relationships.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word consists of three parts: 'der Handel' (trade), the linking element '-s-', and 'die Beziehung' (relationship). The meaning of 'Handelsbeziehung' (trade relationship) can therefore be derived directly from its components.
EXAMPLE
Eine stabile Handelsbeziehung ist für beide Länder von Vorteil.
A stable trade relationship is beneficial for both countries.
Use in the plural
In most cases, this word is used in the plural ('Handelsbeziehungen', trade relationships). It describes the totality of economic contacts between two parties, e.g. countries or companies.
EXAMPLE
Die EU und die Schweiz haben sehr enge Handelsbeziehungen.
The EU and Switzerland have very close trade relationships.
Typical verbs
You can 'aufnehmen' (establish/begin), 'pflegen' (maintain), 'ausbauen' (expand), or 'abbrechen' (break off/end) trade relationships. These verbs describe the state and development of the relationship.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Konflikt haben die beiden Länder ihre Handelsbeziehungen wieder aufgenommen.
After the conflict, the two countries resumed their trade relationships.