German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has warned against using international trade as a political or economic weapon, as Germany seeks to strengthen its economic and diplomatic relationships across Asia.

The issue highlights growing tensions over global trade, economic security, strategic competition and the dependence of major economies on international supply chains.

Key Developments

According to DW's October 30, 2026 report:

1. New global trade partnerships: Merz called for stronger cooperation between Europe and Asian economies to protect international trade rules.

2. US-China rivalry: He warned that rising competition between the United States and China, including tariffs and restrictions on technology, is changing the global economic landscape.

3. Supply-chain protection: Merz argued that international supply chains should not become political bargaining tools and that countries should have fair access to essential raw materials and technologies.

4. EU-Asia trade cooperation: Germany is pushing for closer cooperation between the European Union and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

5. Germany's Asian diplomatic mission: Merz visited Singapore, Japan and South Korea to strengthen trade, technology, investment and security relationships.

Why This Matters to the Global Economy

Merz's warning reflects a growing concern among major economies that international trade is increasingly influenced by geopolitical rivalries.

Countries are seeking to reduce excessive dependence on particular trading partners, secure access to critical minerals, protect technology industries and diversify supply chains.

However, Germany's approach does not amount to a call for completely ending economic relations with China. Rather, it seeks to reduce strategic vulnerabilities while maintaining international economic cooperation.

Implications for Africa and Nigeria

• Trade opportunities: Stronger European-Asian economic partnerships could create new opportunities for African exporters.
• Critical minerals: Nigeria and other African countries could attract investment in mineral exploration and processing.
• Foreign investment: Competition for strategic resources may increase international interest in African markets.
• Economic vulnerability: Countries heavily dependent on imported technology, machinery and manufactured goods could face higher costs if trade tensions intensify.
• Nigeria's opportunity: Greater investment in local manufacturing, mineral processing and export diversification could help Nigeria benefit from changing global trade relationships.

Note:

Germany is positioning itself for a changing global economic order in which trade, technology, security and access to natural resources are increasingly interconnected.

Merz's message is that international commerce should be governed by predictable rules rather than economic pressure and political coercion. Whether Europe and its Asian partners can translate this proposal into concrete trade agreements remains an important question.

Source:https://www.dw.com/en/germany-news-merz-in-asia-warns-against-weaponizing-trade/live-79803462