Nearly 40% of German Chamber of Commerce members in China surveyed in April predicted China’s economy would improve over the next six months, a sharp rise from 22% in 2025 [1, 2]. Over one-third of German firms reported improving business conditions in 2026, compared with 19% a year earlier [1, 2].
The survey of 216 members, conducted from April 15 to 21, revealed growing optimism as 42% of firms expected higher turnover by year-end 2026 while 29% forecast higher profits, both increases on last year’s figures [2]. Sixty-one percent of respondents plan to expand their footprint in China within two years, marking the highest growth intention since 2023 [2]. Oliver Oehms, executive director of the German Chamber of Commerce in China, North China, noted that "the results last year were rather negative, having in mind that the 2025 survey was conducted just a couple of days after the trade tension escalation" [2].
Despite optimism, firms continue to face challenges. Three-quarters reported the Iran war impacted operations through higher logistics and supply costs [2]. Additionally, 69% cited negative effects from ongoing US-China trade tensions, despite easing tariffs since last year [2].
In Germany, investor expectations improved in May amid hopes for an end to fighting in the Middle East. The ZEW expectations index rose to -10.2 from -17.2 in April, signaling increased investor confidence [3]. However, a measure of current economic conditions in Germany worsened to -77.8 in May [3].
German companies in China remain cautiously upbeat, balancing geopolitical risks with strong business confidence. The Chamber’s latest survey results mark significant improvement over 2025 and point to expanding engagement in the Chinese market [1, 2].
