German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul arrives in Beijing for his first official visit as Germany adopts a tougher, more coordinated stance toward China. The trip previously postponed when Beijing confirmed only one meeting request comes as Berlin pushes to rebalance economic ties, reduce strategic dependencies and align more closely with EU partners. Wadephul will meet China’s foreign minister, trade minister and senior Communist Party officials before travelling to Guangzhou, China’s manufacturing hub.
Why It Matters:
Germany’s economic model still heavily relies on China, its largest trading partner, yet political and security concerns from export restrictions to Beijing’s global assertiveness are prompting a major policy shift. Berlin is signalling it will not tolerate unfair trade practices, especially as Europe moves to crack down on Chinese subsidies and market distortions. At the same time, Germany needs China’s cooperation on global crises, including Russia’s war in Ukraine, where Beijing’s influence is decisive.
Berlin aims to protect its industries from China’s export controls on critical materials such as rare earths and semiconductors, while signalling that future economic ties depend on fair competition. The EU is tightening tools like anti-dumping and anti-subsidy measures, pressuring China to adjust its trade practices. For Beijing, Germany remains a vital economic partner and a key channel into European politics. German industry, caught between reliance on China and rising geopolitical risk, is watching closely.
What’s Next:
Wadephul is expected to press China on easing export restrictions and respecting European security concerns. His messages will reflect a coordinated EU stance: unless China addresses Europe’s economic grievances, market access for Chinese firms could narrow. The visit follows Macron’s recent trip and precedes a possible visit by Chancellor Friedrich Merz in early 2026, indicating sustained high-level engagement. Discussions will also cover the Ukraine war, the Middle East conflict, and tensions in the South China Sea.
With information from Reuters.