Dear readers,

we are pleased to be able to present, together with Wegweiser GmbH Berlin, the first “Business Guide Germany Africa.” This business guide is aimed at both German and African readers. The economic relationship between Germany and Africa is based on mutual exchange, which means that the idea of this guide – opening doors in both directions – is very fitting.

The German-African Business Association has, during its 75 years of existence, been very much a door opener for its member companies. As a foreign trade association for German businesses and institutions with economic interests in African states, we provide information about African countries, establish contacts, and represent the interests of our members at home and abroad. In addition, we are also the first point of contact for companies and delegations from Africa that want to learn more about the German market and establish themselves in it. In this role, we are an important contact partner for African embassies, ministries, and institutions. In the future we want to further strengthen this role as a bridge to Germany.

The “Business Guide Germany Africa” provides helpful information about German-African trade relations and lists important contact details. In addition to the German-African Business Association, other organisations involved in this special economic relationship - many of which have been our partners for decades - have made important contributions to this directory, and explain the often unexploited potential of the African continent.

Even though our membership has more than doubled in the past ten years to more than 650, there are still a considerable number of German companies that have not yet discovered the business opportunities that Africa has to offer. We hope that this guide will from now on provide important initial assistance to German and African companies in the respective markets.

The “Business Guide Germany Africa” fills a gap in German-African trade relations. If you require further support for your business, the German-African Business Association, with its 75 years of experience, numerous services and contact details, and a team of around 20 skilled staff, will be pleased to help you. You can find an overview of our services in the special feature, “75 years of the German-African Business Association” on page XX. We would also be pleased to meet you personally at one of more than 50 events we hold each year, or at an individually arranged appointment. We look forward to being of assistance to you in the field of German-African trade relations.