The session was formally opened by Mr. Martin Klose, who set the tone for the discussion by highlighting the German federal state of Thuringia’s leading role in the life sciences sector. He emphasized the region’s strong innovation ecosystem and its growing relevance as a partner for international cooperation, particularly with emerging markets such as Sri Lanka.
In her presentation, Ms. Martens delivered a comprehensive overview of Germany’s healthcare landscape — the largest in Europe, with a market volume of approximately EUR 538 billion and a consistent growth trajectory in recent years. She further positioned Thuringia as a key hub within this ecosystem, home to around 640 companies and a workforce of over 30,000 employees, including globally recognized industry leaders such as Zeiss, Abbott, and Wacker.
Building on this, Ms. Martens shared practical insights into Germany’s current business climate and outlined key investment opportunities within the healthcare sector. She highlighted several transformative trends shaping the industry, including demographic change, digitalization, and the increasing role of additive manufacturing. These developments present significant potential for international partnerships, innovation, and knowledge transfer.
The session also addressed current global developments, including the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict, and its implications for Sri Lanka’s medical sector. Participants noted rising freight costs and extended transportation routes, which pose potential risks to supply chain stability if the situation continues. This prompted a constructive and solution-oriented discussion, where participants shared practical strategies, exchanged operational experiences, and explored ways to mitigate risks despite limited government support.
Overall, the session underscored the importance of dialogue, collaboration, and adaptability in navigating an increasingly complex global landscape. It also highlighted the strong potential for enhanced cooperation between Sri Lanka and Germany, particularly in the healthcare and life sciences sectors.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Ms. Susann Martens and all participants for their valuable contributions to this forward-looking and impactful discussion.
AHK Sri Lanka is part of the global German Chamber Network, supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). With over 150 locations in 93 countries, the AHKs support German and local companies with their international business development, offering expertise, connections, and tailored services. As an essential partner of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry (IHKs) in Germany, AHKs operate in countries of strategic importance to German enterprises worldwide.