A joint workshop between the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and the DIHK/German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHK) underscored a growing emphasis on coordinated economic partnerships, particularly within emerging and developing economies.
The collaboration, highlighted by GIZ officials, aims to leverage the strengths of both organizations – GIZ’s extensive network of governmental and development partnerships in over 120 countries and the AHK’s support for German companies across more than 90 countries with approximately 150 locations – to create mutually beneficial opportunities.
According to GIZ, around 60% of global economic growth is currently occurring in emerging and developing economies, increasing their importance for German businesses and international collaboration. Nearly half of Germany’s GDP is generated through exports, making secure supply chains and reliable market access crucial for the nation’s economic stability.
The GIZ, established in 2011, operates as a federal enterprise and is commissioned primarily by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), but also works with other German government ministries, European Union institutions, the United Nations, the private sector, and governments of other countries. Its 2020 budget totaled €3.3 billion, and it employed 24,977 people as of December 31, 2021.
The partnership seeks to align expertise and on-the-ground presence to deliver concrete results, improving entry points for companies and strengthening the foundations for sustainable growth in partner countries. This approach, officials say, fosters a “win-win” scenario where companies benefit from improved market conditions although partner countries experience stronger institutions and more sustainable economic structures.
The workshop participants – including Dr. Volker Treier, Melanie Vogelbach, Natascha Boussiga, Heiko Schwiderowski, Frank Weißenfels, Bernd Lakemeier, Helmut Hauschild, Zina Fritsche, and Dr. Jacqueline Jaspert – emphasized the increased effectiveness achieved by combining the resources of GIZ, DIHK, and AHK. Germany Trade &. Invest and Euler Hermes also form part of this broader network.
The DIHK, or German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, focuses on economic policy positions and supporting German businesses in navigating challenges such as energy crises and supply chain diversification.
