For the first time since 2017, Chinese businesses surpassed the United States as the top source of foreign investment projects in Germany last year. According to the research, Chinese investors were particularly interested in digitalisation, energy, transportation and logistics, electronics, and robotics.
Overall trend in Europe
According to the annual report of the federal agency Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI), Chinese companies initiated 228 investment projects in Germany in 2025, a 14.6% increase from the previous year.
Even though the overall rate of foreign investment projects in Europe fell by 18%, Germany showed a relatively resilient trend, and its foreign investment projects fell by only 9.3%.
China’s major investments
The GTAI report also revealed that China’s major investments were in production and research and development activities. Chinese companies were continuously expanding their industrial base in Germany through cutting-edge future technologies and knowledge-intensive services.
In contrast, US corporations accounted for 206 projects, a 10% decrease from the previous year. Switzerland, meanwhile, came in third place with 174 projects following a 13.9% drop. Mergers and acquisitions are not included in the report; instead, it covers expansion projects and greenfield investments.
Catalyst for long-term collaboration
This positive trend represents China’s long-term goal of expanding its industrial base and accelerating international exposure. This will allow not only allow China to export its technology but also help countries like Germany to benefit from its technological advancement.
Read More Articles:
Pakistan, China Promote Cricket in Hangzhou















