Mercedes source their parts from all over the world. So do most of the well known German brand names.

Mercedes even build cars in South Africa and ship them all over the world (mostly to RHD countries). So why be concerned about an oil filter.

Just for fun, I checked my spares.
Mann - Czech Rep,
Hengst(2) - Germany & USA,
Mahle - Austria
OEM Mercedes - South Africa.

In past, I have bought OE filters that were stamped Hengst. Those came from Singapore or India or at least somewhere in that area.

I read where MB are even sourcing some parts from Uro!

Basically, you can't judge parts from country of origin or by brand name. They come from all over. Even companies like Bosch, for example, manufacture in China. It's just they way things are these days.

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Graham
85 300D,72 350SL, 98 E320, Outback 2.5