Chinese media Global Times reported on the 26th that in connection with German Economy Minister Reich's first visit to China on a schedule from the 26th to the 29th, 'the accompaniment of numerous German business executives is a strong expression of the desire for cooperation with China.'

According to the article, 40 executives from companies such as integrated chemical manufacturer BASF, energy company Siemens Energy, and steel and industrial products manufacturer ThyssenKrupp will accompany Mr. Reich on his visit to China.

Mr. Reich will inspect Beijing on the 27th and Guangzhou on the 28th, and the delegation will conduct bilateral discussions, participate in business activities, and investigate the business situation of German companies in China.

German industry continues to show a strong desire for cooperation with China. According to a survey conducted by the German Chamber of Commerce in China in April, 51% of responding companies are seeking policy support to promote the partnership between the two countries.

In March, BASF fully operationalized its integrated chemical production base in Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province. The investment amount totals 8.7 billion euros (approximately 1.6095 trillion yen), making it the largest single investment by a German company in China.

According to the German Economic Institute, German companies' investment in China in 2025 exceeded 7 billion euros (approximately 1.295 trillion yen), an increase of approximately 50% compared to the previous year, reaching a four-year high. At the same time, the number of investment projects by Chinese companies in Germany also surpassed that of the United States, making China the largest investing country for Germany. (Translation/Editing by Yanagawa)