More than 100 German brands were represented during the relaunch of the 5th edition of the “Top German Brands in Sri Lanka” in presence of Hon Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade Malik Samarawickrama, German Ambassador H.E. Jörn Rohde and Chief Delegate of the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka, Andreas Hergenroether.
The Top German Brands in Sri Lanka event was organized by the Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) with the support of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany at the Kingsbury Hotel on 17th of September. As chief guest of the evening, Hon Minister Malik Samarawickrama underlined the strong long-standing German-Sri Lankan business ties announcing his visit to Frankfurt, Hamburg and Berlin from 24th to 26th of September, which is coordinated by AHK Sri Lanka.
The keynote speech was delivered by Dr. Ruediger Schaefer, Regional COO Allianz Singapore, who presented an analysis of current opportunities in Sri Lanka with special attention being paid to the economic development and the regional impact of the island and its economic activities.
Mr. Hergenroether, Chief Delegate of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka, in his address pointed out that “as the logistic hub in South Asia and future trade hub, Sri Lanka will offer in the near future more business opportunities than ever. Hence raising public awareness of German brands as strategic partners of Sri Lankan businesses is a key objective of our institution. We are overwhelmed by the support and engagement that we got by the German brands and by their Sri Lankan partners to organize this event.” During the event the participating top German brands had the opportunity to showcase their outstanding innovations in a promotional film series and to network.
Germany, which is regarded as a world champion in industry and trade, is becoming an increasingly important business partner for the island. Sri Lankan exports to Germany grew by 13% in 2017 to € 653 Mio. whereas the imports from Germany increased by 81% to € 570 Mio. The total direct investments to Sri Lanka from Germany amount to USD 1.2 Bn. in total and to USD 6 Mio. in the year 2017.
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka is part of the German Chamber Network abroad of more than 140 offices around the world. Supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy and coordinated by DIHK the German Chambers abroad, the Delegations of German Industry and Commerce represent the interests of German businesses in their partner countries. Furthermore, they provide competent services and offer a platform to create business opportunities for both Sri Lankan and German companies in both directions.