German companies set out their demands ahead of minister's China visit

German companies are calling on the Chinese government to honour its commitments ahead of Economy Minister Katherina Reiche’s visit this week, as businesses warn of persistent difficulties in one of Germany’s most important export markets.

Oliver Oehms, head of the German Chamber of Commerce Abroad (AHK) in northern China, said on Monday that the minister should press for concrete steps to create a more sustainable business environment.

"The intense price pressure is taking its toll on German companies in China," Oehms said. However, he added that measures announced by Beijing to create more balanced markets had remained largely rhetorical.

According to an AHK survey, 39% said the German government must advocate to the Chinese authorities for fair competition and healthy price levels.

The survey, conducted in April, was answered by 216 of the more than 1,800 members of the association representing German companies in China. More than half (51%) also called for support to establish partnerships between German and Chinese firms. 

"We hope the visit will help to transfer the insights gained on the ground into the political discussion in Berlin and to further develop bilateral exchange," said Oehms.

Reiche is expected in the capital Beijing on Wednesday and in the southern Chinese industrial hub Guangzhou on Thursday. 

Alongside longstanding complaints about competitive disadvantages, Beijing’s export controls on raw materials such as rare earths are likely to be a key issue during the visit.

More than a year after the restrictions were introduced, they continue to create uncertainty for German industry, which relies on the metals for a wide range of products.

China overtook the United States as Germany’s largest trading partner in 2025, according to the Federal Statistical Office.