China has overtaken the United States as Germany’s largest trading partner in 2025.
Total trade between Germany and China reached €251bn, according to official data.
German imports from China were worth €170.6bn, more than double its exports of €81.3bn.
Trade with the US fell to €240bn, partly affected by new tariffs.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz will visit Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping and Li Qiang.
He will discuss trade, human rights and the war in Ukraine during the trip.
Germany’s car industry remains deeply tied to the Chinese market.
Companies such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen rely heavily on sales and production there.
The EU is trying to reduce dependence on China for critical materials and manufacturing.
However, Germany’s economic links make a tougher trade stance difficult.
Business leaders will join the visit, calling it a signal for continued cooperation despite global tensions.
