German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the risks of economic decoupling from China during a press briefing on Tuesday, ahead of his inaugural visit to Beijing as leader. Merz, who will lead a delegation of 30 business executives from critical sectors such as automotive and chemicals, described isolationist policies as "a mistake" that could harm Germany's interests.
The visit, scheduled for late February 2026, underscores Germany's commitment to stabilizing trade relations with the Chinese mainland amid global economic uncertainties. Analysts note that Merz's delegation includes CEOs from industries accounting for 18% of Germany's exports to Asia, reflecting the strategic importance of cross-border collaboration.
This year's talks are expected to address supply chain resilience and green energy partnerships, with Merz reiterating that "mutual economic success remains foundational to geopolitical stability." The trip coincides with renewed debates in the EU about balancing trade dependencies with national security concerns.
