China has overtaken the United States as Germany’s top trading partner in 2025.
Total trade between Germany and China reached €251bn, according to official data.
Germany imported €170.6bn in goods from China and exported €81.3bn in return.
Trade with the US fell to €240bn, partly linked to tariff disputes.
The figures were released as Chancellor Friedrich Merz prepared for his first official visit to Beijing.
He will meet Prime Minister Li Qiang and President Xi Jinping for talks on trade, Ukraine and human rights.
Germany’s economy remains closely tied to the Chinese market.
Major carmakers such as Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes-Benz depend heavily on Chinese sales and production.
The EU is trying to reduce reliance on China for key materials and manufacturing.
However, Germany’s industrial interests make a tougher stance difficult.
Business leaders will accompany Merz to promote cooperation.
Berlin says global challenges require continued economic dialogue despite growing competition.
