Summary
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited China to discuss trade issues, highlighting concerns over China's trade practices and Germany's growing trade deficit with China. Merz aimed to address fair trade competition, challenges in the auto industry, and the impact of tariffs affecting German exports, while also touching on China's role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Key Facts
- Friedrich Merz made his first visit to China as Germany's Chancellor.
- The trip occurred as China became Germany's top trading partner, surpassing the U.S.
- Germany accuses China of unfair trade practices, such as subsidizing products like electric vehicles.
- Germany's trade deficit with China reached $102.5 billion last year, a 30% increase.
- The EU imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles due to oversupply concerns.
- German exports to the U.S. decreased by over 9% due to tariffs.
- Merz noted existing tensions in trade with the U.S. and welcomed a U.S. Supreme Court decision to strike down some tariffs.
- Merz discussed China's influence on Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
