German Industry Ramps Up China Push As Top CEOs Join Berlin Mission

Ashik Bothra May 21, 2026 490 Views

Germany is sending senior executives from BASF, Thyssenkrupp and Siemens Energy alongside its economy minister to China next week, underscoring how deeply Europe’s largest economy remains tied to Chinese demand despite an official “de-risking” narrative. The visit signals a renewed effort to safeguard access to China’s vast market, critical raw materials and clean‑energy supply chains.

German Delegation Heads To Beijing

The German economy minister is due in China next week for high‑level talks focused on trade, investment and industrial cooperation at a time of rising frictions over subsidies, green tech and market access. Senior leaders from BASF, Thyssenkrupp and Siemens Energy will join the delegation, reflecting Beijing’s central role in German chemicals, heavy industry and energy-transition businesses.

Strategic Stakes For German Industry

BASF, one of the world’s largest chemical makers, has billions of euros committed to Chinese production complexes and relies heavily on Chinese demand for specialty and basic chemicals. Thyssenkrupp, with interests spanning steel, industrial components and green hydrogen technologies, views China as both a key customer and competitor in heavy industry and decarbonisation projects. Siemens Energy, a major player in power equipment and grid technology, is deeply exposed to China’s massive electricity, renewables and transmission build‑out.

Trade Tensions And “De‑Risking”

The trip comes as Germany and the wider European Union seek to “de‑risk” from China by diversifying suppliers while avoiding a full‑blown decoupling. Berlin is increasingly concerned about a widening trade deficit, alleged unfair trade practices and over‑capacity in Chinese green‑tech exports, even as German manufacturers depend on Chinese sales and joint ventures. Closed‑door meetings are expected to tackle sensitive issues such as industrial subsidies, data rules and equal treatment for European firms in China.

What To Watch Next Week

Key highlights

Participation of BASF, Thyssenkrupp and Siemens Energy chiefs in the ministerial delegation to China
Focus on trade, market access, raw materials security and energy‑transition cooperation
Backdrop of EU “de‑risking” strategy and disputes over green‑tech subsidies and over‑capacity
Potential signals on new investments, joint projects or policy concessions emerging from the talks