Klingbeil: Competition with China must be fair - Germany’s Vice Chancellor Seeks Stronger Economic Ties in Landmark China Visit
German Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil has embarked on a significant visit to China. This is the first such trip by a German minister from the coalition government since its inception. Klingbeil arrived in Beijing on Sunday, November 16, 2025, and will participate in the German-Chinese financial dialogue on Monday, November 17, 2025, before proceeding to Shanghai on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.
Klingbeil's visit aims to foster deeper cooperation in the financial sector and secure better market access for German companies in China. He plans to discuss fair competition, improved access to critical raw materials, and the reduction of Chinese overcapacity in strategic sectors such as steel and electric mobility. Notably, the potential role of China in the ongoing Ukraine war is also set to be a topic of conversation during his visit.
Klingbeil's trip to China underscores Germany's commitment to strengthening economic ties and addressing key trade issues. His discussions are expected to yield progress in promoting fair competition and improving market access for German businesses in China.