The head of a German economic and trade association has called for concerted efforts in the business sector to overcome the challenge of the rapid spread of the novel coronavirus.

Michael Schumann, chairman of the board of directors of the German Federal Association for Economic Development and Foreign Trade, said the disease is definitely a crisis that challenges almost everyone. 

"But experience tells us that Germany can recover from an economic crisis. We are always optimistic when facing challenges," Schumann said.

With 4,838 confirmed coronavirus cases as of March 15, Germany started to take stricter measures to limit the spread of the epidemic, with Berlin and other states closing all bars, museums, clubs and fitness studios and banning events of over 50 people.

Most states have closed schools and kindergartens until April 20, while Bavaria has imposed restrictions on families visiting nursing homes. And starting from Monday, Germany will also close its borders with five countries: France, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Denmark.

The chairman acknowledged that the outbreak is taking a toll on German companies, particularly in the manufacturing industry.

"Not only are the German companies affected, but also the entire supply chain. From this perspective, getting out of the difficulties is very important," he stressed.

He said that companies should "seize opportunities to alleviate the current problem, think about the supply chain and work responsibly, as well as control the crisis as soon as possible so that everyone can get back on track."

Meanwhile, the chairman is bullish on China-Germany economic relationship going forward as China is Germany's largest trading partner, and German manufacturers depend on both demand and supply chains from China.

"I believe China is and will continue to be an important economic and trading partner of Germany. Thousands of German companies invest in China. China is our focus in the economic field," Schumann said.