Published on March 13, 2026
2025 was a year marked by shifting trade dynamics, uncertainty from supply‑chain disruption and increased price pressure in the Chinese market. At the same time, the pace of innovation in the Chinese market intensified. To react to the ever more complex business environment, German companies accelerated their localization efforts and increasingly engaged in partnerships with Chinese firms - both strategies to maintain competitiveness in China and globally.
Against this backdrop, the German Chamber of Commerce in China continued to play a vital supporting role. Representing more than 1,800 member companies, we are committed to providing effective advocacy, market insights, tailored services and platforms for connection and cooperation to help members seize opportunities and manage risks in the Chinese market. To make the voice of German companies in China heard, the Chamber engaged in more than 100 meetings with central and local Chinese government officials in 2025. These dialogues helped contribute to a more transparent and predictable business environment for German companies in China.
During German Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister of Finance Lars Klingbeil’s visit to China in November 2025, we participated in several high-level exchanges to discuss the current business sentiment of German companies in China and to underscore the crucial role of political support for their success.
Moreover, the Chamber published the May 2025 Flash Survey focusing on the trade conflict, and the Business Confidence Survey 2025/2026 themed “Partnerships Reloaded”. In addition, the 18th edition of the Labour Market and Salary Report was released in July 2025. These publications offer important data and analyses on business sentiment and industry developments. They also serve as a main source for our media work to further amplify the voice of German business. In 2025, we promoted cooperation with local media across China to support German companies in various regions.
Connecting members and expanding opportunities for exchange remained at the core of our work. In 2025 we organized and hosted more than 250 events - including the Automotive Forum, ESG Day & More Than A Market Award, the Dialogue series, the Xplore China series, the inspiring German Balls in Beijing and in Shanghai and various Oktoberfest - providing important platforms for policy exchange, business collaboration and community building.
We thank our members, partners and supporters for their trust and engagement over the past year. Facing a future of both challenges and opportunities, we will continue to champion dialogue, advocate for a level playing field and support German companies in succeeding in the Chinese market.