• German Chancellor Friedrich Merz aims to deepen economic cooperation with China.
• Merz emphasizes the need for fair trade practices and expresses concerns about competition.
• The German trade deficit with China reached a record €89 billion last year.
• Merz seeks China's influence to help mediate the Ukraine conflict.
• The visit involves a large delegation of German business leaders and multiple agreements.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has embarked on a two-day visit to China, prioritizing the enhancement of trade relations amid existing concerns regarding fairness in economic interaction. During his meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing, Merz stated, "We have very specific concerns regarding our cooperation, which we want to improve and make fair,” reflecting the strain that German manufacturers are facing due to competition from Chinese products. This dialogue comes as China positions itself as a responsible advocate of free trade, contrasting its policies with those of the U.S., which is often viewed as chaotic and unilateral, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.

The visit emphasizes the necessity for stricter trade regulations, especially following Germany's substantial trade deficit of €89 billion ($105 billion) with China last year. Merz noted that Germany’s imports from China increased by 8.8% to €170.6 billion, while exports fell by 9.7%. The chancellor expressed a desire for improved market access for German industries, indicating a focus on systemic issues such as overcapacity in key manufacturing sectors like electric vehicles and solar panels. Calls for a more equitable trading framework are echoed in the statements made by Merz, as he stressed the importance of fair access to markets, according to India Times and Al Jazeera.

Additionally, Merz planned to address geopolitical concerns, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He urged China to leverage its influence over Russia to help broker an end to the war, highlighting that "the big global political problems can no longer be tackled today without involving Beijing.” This plea for cooperation on significant international issues showcases the dual focus of Merz's trip not only on trade but also on broader diplomatic relations, according to India Times and Reuters.

The visit has also seen the signing of several agreements, including those targeting climate change and food security, reinforcing Germany's commitment to a cooperative approach. As Merz seeks to rejuvenate longstanding ties with China, he acknowledges the importance of open channels of communication between the two economies. He stated, "We share responsibility in the world, and we should live up to that responsibility together," reflecting the collaborative spirit that he hopes to cultivate, according to Al Jazeera and India Times.