German public backs tougher China policy as manufacturing jobs tumble

A recent European Council on Foreign Relations poll finds that about 60% of German voters view China as an adversary or rival, making Germany the most China‑skeptical country in Europe. The survey shows 49% consider China a rival, while only 38% see it as a partner.

Germany’s manufacturing sector has been hit hard, losing roughly 420,000 jobs between 2019 and 2025 and shedding around 10,000 jobs each month, with the automotive industry bearing the brunt. The economic strain is fueling public support for a more assertive EU stance on China, including stronger trade‑defence tools and limits on high‑risk Chinese technology. Berlin, previously reluctant, is now less likely to block firmer EU measures, giving policymakers a clear mandate to pursue a tougher China policy.