China has overtaken the United States as Germany’s top trading partner, with total trade reaching €251bn in 2025.
The figure marks a 2.2% rise and restores China to first place after the US briefly led in 2024.
Germany imported €170.6bn in goods from China and exported €81.3bn in return.
Trade with the US fell 5% to €240bn, partly influenced by tariffs.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz will visit Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping and Li Qiang.
He is expected to discuss Ukraine, human rights and economic relations.
German carmakers remain deeply tied to the Chinese market.
Companies such as Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes-Benz rely heavily on Chinese production and sales.
The EU is trying to reduce dependence on China for critical materials and manufacturing.
Germany’s need to protect its automotive industry has made its position on tariffs more cautious.
Business leaders will accompany Merz, signalling a focus on cooperation despite growing trade tensions.
