13.05.2026 - “For the first time since 2017, a US president is visiting China again – an important signal during a phase of growing geopolitical tensions and ongoing trade conflicts. For over a year now, high tariffs, export controls, and political uncertainties have been significantly impacting international trade flows. The repercussions are being felt directly and severely by German companies worldwide. 

Recent figures from AHK Greater China in May 2026 reveal: Trade conflicts between the US and China continue to severely impact German companies in China. 69 per cent of the surveyed companies report negative effects. Besides tariffs, export controls remain particularly problematic as they increase supply chain costs and complicate investments.

The results of the Trump-Xi summit are therefore highly relevant for the European economy. Both China and the US are among our major trading partners. Any rapprochement – or trade policy escalation – between these two nations has immediate consequences for German businesses.

Achieving closer alignment or agreement in the area of export controls is particularly crucial. Further tightening of restrictions is under consideration and could have severe consequences for German businesses. Even today, export controls related to critical raw materials, semiconductors, and essential technologies pose significant challenges for many companies. Stricter regulations would further strain international supply chains.

However, agreements between the US and China to politically control global supply chains would go in the wrong direction from the perspective of German business. Our companies rely on open markets and reliable international trade regulations.

In any case, the European Union must interpret the intensified rivalry of these economic giants as a wake-up call: We need a stronger internal market, greater economic resilience, and a determined trade agenda. Strategic dependencies – for instance, in key raw materials and permanent magnets – must be targeted for reduction. Otherwise, Europe risks being caught in the crossfire of an increasing economic decoupling between the US and China.”