Germany's Merz Visits China AI Hub Hoping For Business Deals

February 26, 2026 - 04:19

A high-level German business delegation, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, visited the eastern Chinese technology center of Hangzhou on Thursday. The visit focused on exploring new commercial opportunities, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence and innovation, following high-stakes political talks in Beijing.

The trip to Hangzhou, a city renowned as a major base for China's digital economy and AI research, underscores the economic dimension of Merz's visit. The delegation, which includes representatives from several leading German companies, aims to foster technological collaboration and secure new business contracts in a competitive global market.

This outreach comes directly after Chancellor Merz met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the capital. Those discussions yielded a significant agreement for Airbus to expand its production facilities within China. The delegation's pivot to Hangzhou signals a strategic effort to build on that momentum and engage with China's dynamic private tech sector.

Officials emphasized the importance of balanced and fair economic ties between the two nations. The visit is seen as an effort to strengthen trade relationships while navigating a complex international landscape. The outcomes of these business-focused discussions in Hangzhou are anticipated to influence the trajectory of Sino-German economic cooperation in cutting-edge industries.