Germany Says China Plans to Order Over Hundred of Airbus Aircraft

(MENAFN) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced Wednesday that China is preparing to place a substantial aircraft order with European aerospace giant Airbus, potentially involving up to 120 additional planes.

Speaking to reporters in Beijing after discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Merz described the prospective agreement as evidence of the value of high-level diplomatic engagement. He remarked that it “demonstrates how worthwhile such trips can be.”

Although he did not disclose financial terms or a timeline for finalizing the purchase, Merz stressed that the partnership reflects strong mutual benefits and productive cooperation between the two sides.

He added that the Airbus arrangement highlights the broader significance of senior-level visits, revealing that other commercial agreements involving additional companies are also "in prospect."

During what marked his first official visit in his role as chancellor, Merz also held talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. The meetings resulted in the signing of five intergovernmental accords focused on sectors including economic collaboration and agriculture.

China remains a key market for Airbus and has increasingly integrated production locally. In particular, the A320 model is assembled at a facility in Tianjin, reflecting Beijing’s strategy of localizing aircraft manufacturing.

Traditionally, China balances its aircraft procurement between Airbus and the US-based manufacturer Boeing, often placing large-scale orders that are later allocated to state-run airlines.

While Boeing may gain momentum through trade diplomacy during the administration of US President Donald Trump, Airbus’s latest development is widely seen as an effort to strengthen Europe’s foothold in the competitive aviation market.

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