Deepening Economic Ties With Beijing Poses Security Challenges to Berlin: Analysts

German Economy and Energy Minister Katherina Reiche speaks to the media in Paris on May 6, 2026. Benoit Tessier / POOL / AFP via Getty Images

German Economic Affairs and Energy Minister Katherina Reiche’s visit to China exposes Berlin’s deep economic dependence on the Chinese market, a vulnerability experts warn invites infiltration and technology theft.

Reiche concluded her four-day trip to China on May 29, calling for a balance of competition and cooperation in Berlin’s economic ties with Beijing.