China has regained its position as Germany’s top trading partner, overtaking the United States in 2025.
Total trade between Germany and China reached €251bn, according to official data.
Germany imported €170.6bn in goods from China while exporting €81.3bn.
Trade with the US fell to €240bn, partly influenced by tariffs and weaker demand.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz will travel to Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping and Li Qiang.
His visit will focus on trade, the war in Ukraine and human rights.
Germany’s car industry remains deeply tied to the Chinese market.
Companies such as Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes-Benz depend heavily on sales and production there.
The EU is trying to reduce strategic dependence on China through tariffs and supply-chain policies.
However, Germany’s need to protect its automotive sector has made its position more cautious.
Merz will be accompanied by senior business leaders as Berlin signals a willingness to maintain dialogue despite growing economic tensions.
