Tino Chrupalla on China
TL;DR
Tino Chrupalla supports constructive exchanges with Chinese officials and parties while his party faces espionage allegations involving an aide.
Key Points
In January 2026, the Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed Tino Chrupalla began a visit to China, stating China maintains exchanges with German political parties.
He previously backed Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang's efforts to broker peace in Ukraine following Russia's invasion in 2022.
The AfD leadership, including him, reacted to the lifting of immunity for Maximilian Krah over alleged Chinese bribery by demanding a swift conclusion to the investigation as of September 2025.
Summary
Tino Chrupalla, as co-chairman of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has engaged with Chinese officials, having visited China and reportedly met with high-level government figures. He has previously voiced opposition to restrictions on Chinese technology and supported Chinese diplomatic efforts, such as those regarding the Ukraine peace process. This engagement occurs within the context of the AfD's broader foreign policy leaning towards Russia and a general skepticism of Western alignments, though the party faces internal and external scrutiny.
This relationship has been complicated by significant legal issues involving an aide to a fellow AfD politician, Maximilian Krah, who faces espionage charges relating to Beijing, which led to searches of offices and a trial opening in Dresden. While Chrupalla and the AfD leadership called for a swift conclusion and publication of the investigation results into the spying allegations, the situation draws focus onto the party's dealings with China. China's Foreign Ministry has confirmed interactions with AfD representatives, viewing them as part of broader political party exchanges with Germany, while not explicitly endorsing the party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tino Chrupalla has engaged directly with Beijing, confirmed by a January 2026 visit where he reportedly met Chinese officials. His party's engagement suggests a willingness for constructive dialogue despite broader geopolitical tensions. He has previously supported certain Chinese diplomatic positions.
His public record indicates support for maintaining relations and engaging with Chinese entities, aligning with the AfD's pro-Russia foreign policy leaning. However, the party is currently managing the fallout from espionage and bribery allegations involving a colleague's aide linked to Beijing.
Tino Chrupalla voiced opposition to restrictions being placed on Chinese technology in the past, according to reports from 2023. This aligns with a general tendency to critique policies perceived as being dictated by Western powers.