China Willing to Import More German Goods, Premier Li Tells Steinmeier

China has expressed its willingness to increase imports of high-quality German products as Beijing and Berlin seek to strengthen economic cooperation amid growing trade tensions between China and Europe.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang made the remarks on Friday, October 30, during a meeting with visiting German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Beijing.

According to a statement released by China’s Foreign Ministry, Li said China was ready to purchase more quality products from Germany and encouraged German businesses to explore opportunities in the Chinese market.

He also called on both countries to defend free trade and maintain open economic cooperation at a time when unilateralism and protectionist policies are gaining ground globally.

Li said China was prepared to expand cooperation with Germany in several sectors, including automobiles, chemicals, artificial intelligence, digital technology and green development.

He added that Beijing would support more Chinese companies seeking to invest in Germany, while urging the German government to provide a fair, stable and predictable business environment for Chinese investors.

Steinmeier welcomed continued economic engagement between the two countries, describing their commercial relationship as successful and mutually beneficial. He said cooperation between German and Chinese companies was important not only to both economies but also to the wider international community.

The visit comes as Germany and other European countries reassess their economic relationships with China amid disputes over trade practices, industrial competition and market access.

Germany has traditionally maintained strong commercial links with China, particularly in the automotive, engineering and chemical industries. However, the relationship has faced increasing pressure as European manufacturers raise concerns about competition from Chinese producers and restrictions affecting access to the Chinese market.

Chinese President Xi Jinping also met Steinmeier on Friday, calling on Germany to maintain what he described as a rational, pragmatic and friendly approach towards Beijing.

Xi said China viewed the European Union as a partner and urged both sides to address disagreements through dialogue and cooperation.

The Chinese president’s remarks formed part of a wider diplomatic effort by Beijing to strengthen relations with European governments amid trade disagreements and growing calls within the bloc for greater economic protection.

Steinmeier’s visit provides an opportunity for both countries to discuss ways of maintaining their commercial relationship while addressing differences over trade and investment.

Although Li’s offer signals China’s interest in purchasing more German products, it remains to be seen whether the statement will lead to specific import commitments or agreements benefiting German exporters.