German Companies Show Growing Optimism and Investment in Asia-Pacific Markets Excluding China

German companies are increasingly optimistic about business prospects in the Asia-Pacific region outside China, with 56% expecting improved conditions according to the latest AHK World Business Outlook (WBO).

Investment willingness has risen notably, with 37% of firms planning to increase investments—a 7 percentage point jump since spring 2026. This optimism contrasts with a more cautious outlook for China, where only 35% of companies anticipate better conditions next year.

Economic momentum in the Asia-Pacific is supported by rising demand for semiconductors, data center components, and the growing use of artificial intelligence, despite supply chain challenges linked to the Strait of Hormuz. German exports to the Asia-Pacific, excluding China, surpassed €100 billion by August 2026, marking a trade volume increase of over 3% compared to the previous year.

The Asia-Pacific Conference (APK) aims to reinforce economic cooperation and calls for ambitious trade agreements to open markets, strengthen supply chains, and provide businesses with planning certainty. This positive trend highlights the region as a key area for German companies' future growth and investment strategies.