Right to fair conditions: Söder calls for China's support

Right to fair conditions: Söder calls for China's support

Bavaria's Prime Minister Markus Söder from the CSU called for fair and equal competitive conditions for Bavarian and German companies in China during his visit to China. During a conversation with Chinese Trade Minister Wang Wentao, Söder emphasized the need for fairness in expanding economic relations, as companies were already experiencing an increasingly demanding market. The specific demands included the reduction of restrictions on data traffic, planning security, investment conditions, and more transparency in approval procedures. It is also important not to unilaterally favor Chinese state-owned companies and to ensure the protection of intellectual property.

According to an analysis by IW Cologne, German companies invested more money in China in 2023 than ever before, amounting to 11.9 billion euros, even though overall foreign direct investment fell to its lowest level in 30 years. Despite geopolitical tensions and growing distrust in Chinese economic policy, many German companies continue to choose to invest in China in order to remain competitive. The business climate survey by the German Chamber of Commerce Abroad shows that despite its declining attractiveness as an investment location, many companies want to maintain their activities in China.

Bavaria's most important trading partner is China, with a trade volume of around 53 billion euros in 2023. This includes exports worth around 17 billion euros and imports of almost 36 billion euros. The political highlight of Söder's trip to China is the planned meeting with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, who was already accompanied by representatives of Bavarian companies who were able to present their concerns regarding Chinese market conditions.