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The trade conflict creates hurdles for German companies, mainly due to the impact of U.S. and Chinese tariffs. A notable decline in the economic outlook among German businesses in China is evident, yet investment strategies remain strong.

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Maximilian Butek, Executive Director & Board Member of the German Chamber of Commerce in East China, comments on the results:

"It is concerning that the vast majority of German companies in China are affected by the escalated trade conflict. We expect that German companies’ localization efforts in China will gain even more momentum now. However, this alone will not solve the problem. Many companies are integrated into Chinese export supply chains, and US tariffs carry the risk of impairing these businesses long-term. Clearly, the trade conflict is a game with no winners. We recognize the current situation as an important opportunity for the EU to negotiate improved trade and investment conditions with China.”

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Oliver Oehms, Executive Director & Board Member of the German Chamber of Commerce in North China, comments on the plan:

"The German business community welcomes the Special Action Plan for Boosting Consumption as a much-needed initiative. It addresses the pressing issue of weak domestic demand which currently poses the primary business challenge for German companies in China. We particularly value the inclusion of numerous concrete and actionable measures outlined in the plan. If implemented swiftly and decisively, we are optimistic that the new plan will lead to positive effects on the business environment."

Oliver Oehms, Executive Director & Board Member of the German Chamber of Commerce in North China, comments:

"The government work report has been well received by the German business community in China, who see the fiscal policy adjustments as a good step toward revitalizing demand and fostering a more dynamic economic environment. Additionally, German companies hope to see more effective on-the-ground implementation of equal treatment and a level playing field to be able to fully contribute to China’s GDP growth target."

The Business Confidence Survey 2024/25 highlights economic headwinds, fierce competition, and local protectionist measures as key concerns. 

English Press Release

German Press Release

Full Report

Based on a survey conducted among German Chamber members, the Innovation Report 2024 shows that German companies continue to localize research and development functions to strengthen product competitiveness and reach more customers in China. At the same time, they increasingly utilize China as an innovation hub for global markets.

English Press Release

Full Report

The German Chamber of Commerce in China has published the 17^th edition of the Labor Market & Salary Report, a comprehensive benchmark for wages of German companies in China. This edition shows that the downward trend of salaries continues.

English Press Release

Chinese Press Release

Shortened Version of the Report

German Press Release

The Flash Survey reveals that although German companies operating in China are increasing their turnover expectations, optimism about the Chinese economy returns only slowly.

English Press Release

German Press Release

Full Report

Chinese and German companies are increasingly becoming close competitors - both in China itself and in global markets. German companies strengthen their competitiveness through increased investment in their China business and cooperation with partners and customers.

Full Results

Ready, set...compete: Competitiveness emerges as a key issue for German companies in China. 

English Press Release

German companies in China expect the fourth consecutive year of below-five-percent wage growth.

English Press Release

Business outlook restrained by market development and geopolitics.

English Press Release