China’s state media portray their country as a stabilizing actor, helpful for Western leaders who are looking for alternative partners given the challenges emanating from the US. They emphasize that China offers solutions in many ways and that Merz’ trip offers a window of opportunity for cooperation between China and Germany.

A cargo ship loaded with foreign trade containers departed from Qingdao Port in Qingdao City, Shandong Province, China on January 20, 2026.

MERICS Economic Indicators is our quarterly analysis of China’s economic data. The MERICS Economy and Industry team provides updates on the latest macroeconomic trends and their impact on Europe. 

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NisGrünberg

Nis Grünberg

Lead Analyst

State-party relations; elite politics; China’s sustainable development

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Wendy Chang

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China's tech companies, digital ecosystem and emerging technologies including AI

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Mikko Huotari

Executive Director

China’s foreign policy; China-Europe relations; global (economic) governance and competition

Altynay Junusova

Altynay Junusova

Analyst

Space technology; quantum; critical minerals; dual-use technology

HelenaLegarda

Helena Legarda

Head of Program

China’s defense and security policies; Chinese foreign policy, geopolitical competition and risk

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping (from right to left) during a meeting ceremony in the Kremlin.

The China-Russia Dashboard monitors the economic, political, security, and societal dimensions of China-Russia relations and their changing quality over time. The results are presented in interactive graphics and analyses.

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