A modern economic relationship requires cooperation and competition, German minister says in China

Germany’s economy minister emphasized the need for balanced cooperation and fair competition with China, highlighting the importance of stable trade ties between two of the world’s biggest economic partners. Berlin also raised concerns over reliable access to critical minerals as both nations seek stronger and more equitable business relations.

May 27, 2026

Maria Martinez/Reuters

A modern economic relationship requires cooperation and competition, German minister says in China

German Economy and Energy Minister Katherina Reiche addresses the media following the weekly cabinet meeting about the Draft Act to Building Modernization Act at the Paul Loebe house in Berlin, Germany May 13, 2026.

Annegret Hilse/Reuters

A modern economic relationship requires both cooperation and competition, German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche said on Wednesday in Beijing.

"Competition makes us stronger, cooperation creates stability, and innovation creates shared progress," Reiche said in her first trip to China.

She stressed that Germany is seeking dialogue with China, because fair competitive conditions are needed.

"Our companies do not shy away from competition," Reiche said. "But competition must be shaped and organised in such a way that it is of mutual benefit."

Reiche praised industrial technology and innovation and China, adding that Germany and China are linked by one of the most important economic relationships in the world.

"Our shared interest is to keep these relations stable," Reiche said. "Stable, respectful, reliable, fair, and focused on balance."

With a trade volume of around 250 billion euros, China was again Germany's largest trading partner in goods in 2025 and around 5,000 German companies are currently active in China.

Reiche said she also spoke with Chinese counterparts about having "reliable access" to critical minerals for German companies.

-Maria Martinez/Reuters