Merz Begins Asian Tour to Strengthen Germany’s Trade Ties

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is beginning an Asian tour covering Singapore, Japan and South Korea, with efforts to strengthen trade at the centre of the visit.

The trip comes as Germany faces competition from China and restrictions in the US market, adding pressure to deepen commercial ties elsewhere.

Merz’s itinerary brings together three Asian partners as his government seeks to expand trade links against that challenging backdrop.

The tour places Germany’s economic relations with Asia in focus, with stronger exchanges with Singapore, Japan and South Korea forming the core of its agenda.