German companies think China is a far more reliable trading partner than the US or Great Britain, according to a survey by Commerzbank.
China was ranked third in an assessment based on political and economic conditions affecting trade, with a score of 30, led by Germany itself way out ahead on 65, and France on 39. The US, in fourth place, was a long way behind on 17 points, followed by Italy (11), Russia (10), Great Britain (8), Brazil (5) and Turkey (3), according to the results of the survey issued.
The US’ protectionist stance under President Trump counted against it with respondents. More than two thirds (68 per cent) of companies with a physical presence in the US, and 64 per cent of exporters to the US, feared the country’s foreign and trade policies would have a negative impact on business.