China Business Climate Under Strain: The Global Tariff Shockwave Survey

Daniel Berger’s Reflections

Based on input from over 250 companies, the survey revealed that expected tariff impact correlates closely with U.S. business exposure: half of respondents anticipate only moderate effects due to limited exposure with below 10%, while 16% expect significant disruption from higher dependence. Encouragingly, 50% feel confident navigating these challenges - actively working on supply chain realignment, pricing adjustments, market diversification, and selective production shifts.

A highlight of the evening was the excellent panel discussion with Carlo Diego D'Andrea (EUCham), Yue Su (The Economist), George C. Chang (Z Young Flooring) and Lieven Van Heddegem (IPTE), expertly moderated by Christian Sommer.

The discussion underlined how geopolitical tensions, weak domestic demand, and intensifying price competition are reshaping China’s business environment. Yet despite these headwinds, belief in China’s long-term potential remains strong, tough contingent on structural reform and renewed investor confidence.

Special thanks to Peter Hergemöller 贺彼德 and the entire VDMA China team Han Chen, Doris Yang and Li Xin for their great support!

Building on today’s momentum, EAC International Consulting looks forward to continuing these discussions and strengthening partnerships to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities.