The World Economic Forum (WEF) analysed 12 areas in the economies of 140 countries.
Germany remains a country of inventors, especially through the strength and quality of its research, and is still highly competitive overall.
In terms of innovation, Germany sits ahead of all other countries, its closest rival being the United States. This assessment is based on new product development, right through to successful marketing and distribution.
For example, one key factor was the quantity of new registered patents, including scientific publications, and the satisfaction rate reported by consumers of German products.
The ‘Made in Germany’ badge carries weight across more than just the automotive industry – also in robotics, medical supplies and supply chain management, Germany and its reputation is constantly growing.
In terms of overall competitiveness, meanwhile, Germany was judged to be behind only the United States, with Singapore in the third position.

Sources as: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBIEAVqUqbo
http://www3.weforum.org/docs/GCR2018/05FullReport/TheGlobalCompetitivenessReport2018.pdf