Since 1999, China has continuously increased its presence in the European Union’s import markets, becoming an increasing competitor for German trade within the EU, according to the KfW study “Focus on Economics .” The share of Chinese imports increased significantly, particularly after joining the World Trade Organization in 2001. In contrast, Germany’s share of imports from other EU countries remained relatively stable, although it has shown a slight downward trend in recent years.
Mechanical engineering, vehicle construction and chemicals particularly affected
Competition is particularly noticeable in the key job function email list sectors of mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, and chemical products. While Germany will still account for 29% of the other EU member states’ imports in automotive engineering in 2024, China has increased its share from 1% in 2012 to 4%. In mechanical engineering, China’s share climbed from 7% to 10% over the same period, and in chemical products from 2% to 6%.
China’s export structure is increasingly similar to that of Germany
China’s export portfolio is increasingly aligning with Germany’s. Especially since 2015, as part of the “Made in China 2025” strategy, China has been systematically modernizing its manufacturing sector and investing in high-tech industries such as electromobility, battery technology, and solar panels. In the analyzed sectors, the similarity of trade structures between Germany and China is increasing, which is increasing direct competitive pressure.
Increasing value added shares from China
China not only supplies final products but is increasingly integrating itself into global value chains. While Germany’s share of foreign value boost sales of your blog’s popular content added in the EU remained largely constant, China was able to significantly increase it. Particularly in mechanical engineering, China’s share of the foreign value added included in EU final demand rose to approximately 10.7%.
Perception of German industry
Surveys among German companies confirm south africa numbers growing competition from China . Around two-thirds of the surveyed manufacturing companies view China as a major challenge. The German Engineering Federation (VDMA) also expects that in five years, more than 60% of its members will perceive the competitive situation in China as average to poor.