The GBA delegation attends a conference on developing regional and international financial centers in Vietnam

Driving economic cooperation and unlocking new opportunities

Over the past 30 years, GBA has become a trusted and effective bridge between the German and Vietnamese business communities. Germany is currently Vietnam’s largest trading partner within the European Union, while Vietnam is one of Germany’s leading markets in ASEAN.

With a network of more than 400 members, GBA has become one of the largest and most dynamic foreign business associations in Vietnam. The organization continuously supports German businesses to enter the Vietnamese market smoothly, assists in resolving complex legal issues, builds sustainable partnerships, and promotes a spirit of innovation and sustainable development, laying a solid foundation for the shared prosperity of both economies.

Mr. Alexander Ziehe emphasized that successful German companies in Vietnam share long-term vision, strong local engagement, and commitment to quality and sustainability. “Companies such as Ziehl-Abegg, Kärcher, and Südwolle Group have significantly expanded their investments, clearly demonstrating the great potential of the Vietnamese market,” he said. His advice for new investors is to be patient, deeply understand the legal regulations, and build solid partnerships with local entities. At the same time, leveraging platforms like GBA will help businesses receive comprehensive support during their investment and development process.

Moreover, Vietnam’s investment environment continues to attract strong interest from German investors. According to the Spring 2025 AHK World Business Outlook survey, “80% of German companies in Vietnam rate their current business situation as good or satisfactory, with 38% planning to increase investment and 43% expecting to expand their workforce in 2025.” Key sectors attracting great attention include renewable energy, high-tech manufacturing, automation, and vocational training. With the EVFTA and improving infrastructure, many German companies view Vietnam as a strategic regional hub for their operations.

Addressing challenges and shaping a sustainable future

Despite the positive business outlook in Vietnam, German companies still face significant challenges such as regulatory inconsistencies, complex administrative procedures, shortages of skilled technical labor, and external shocks like changes in global tariff policies. Mr. Alexander Ziehe affirmed: “GBA continues to advocate for transparency reforms, procedural simplification, and increased stability in the investment environment to help businesses operate more effectively and sustainably.”

Looking ahead, cooperation between Vietnam and Germany will focus strongly on innovation, green growth, and digital transformation. German companies have contributed actively to Vietnam’s sustainable development goals through investments in clean energy, Industry 4.0, and circular economy models. At the same time, Germany’s dual vocational training model is being implemented in Vietnam to upgrade workforce skills and lay a solid foundation for the country’s long-term competitiveness.

GBA will continue to expand public-private dialogue to address policy and operational challenges, develop activities beyond Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City provinces, promote ESG and digital transformation among members, and organize important events such as the GBA Business Awards, German Ball, and Oktoberfest to connect and honor the business community.

“We are proud of the journey so far and remain committed to continuing to accompany and build a strong, innovative, and mutually successful Vietnam-Germany partnership in the future,” Mr. Alexander Ziehe emphasized.