Southeast Asian countries are becoming increasingly important as trading partners for Germany. In the Schwarzwald-Baar-Heuberg region alone, 225 companies maintain business relations with Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. This means that one in five companies from the region conducts international business with Southeast Asian nations.

Conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, along with strained relations between the European Union (EU) and the People's Republic of China, have heightened our dependence on raw materials and goods. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its member states offer an appealing alternative to China for businesses operating in the Asian market. The region boasts a diversified economic and industrial infrastructure and is already a key hub for trade between the US, Europe, Africa, and Australia.

Against this backdrop, our sixth IHK Country Week, taking place from March 17 to 21, 2025, will focus on these markets. This event series provides interested companies with a week-long, diverse online program featuring information and networking opportunities to secure and expand their international business operations.

Once again, participants can look forward to a highly practical program featuring numerous experts. Key topics include economic and policy frameworks, emerging industries, and procurement opportunities through supply chain diversification and nearshoring. Gain valuable market insights and create a competitive edge for your business.

We wish you great success in your Southeast Asia ventures and look forward to your participation.

Spotlight on Vietnam

In recent years, Vietnam has made significant progress and offers many opportunities. Positioned at the center of the global economy, Vietnam has signed free trade agreements with 60 countries, including the European Union. Due to growing uncertainties in China and favorable conditions in areas such as legal frameworks, human resources, and geography, Vietnam has become an attractive location for both sourcing and investment (e.g., automotive, metal processing, electronics).

The expanding middle class and a growing economy further enhance Vietnam’s appeal as a sales market (e.g., mechanical engineering, chemical products, consumer goods). Products "Made in Germany" enjoy an excellent reputation and are highly sought after in Vietnam.

Event Goal
Participants will gain insights into the Vietnamese market, enabling them to strategically pursue sales, procurement, and investment activities.

Doing Business in Cambodia and Laos: Market Opportunities and Challenges

Although Cambodia and Laos are small nations and listed among the UN's least developed countries, they are leveraging the advantages of the dynamic ASEAN economic region to grow. The presentations will provide an overview of the economic landscape in both countries, including details on bilateral trade with Germany.

The focus will be on market insights, opportunities, and challenges in trade, procurement, and investment, with particular emphasis on textiles, food processing, and information and communication technology (ICT). Practical tips for conducting business with companies in these countries will also be shared.

Event Goal
While Cambodia and Laos are primarily known as tourist destinations, they offer much more. These expert presentations will highlight business opportunities for German companies in these markets.

Registration

Registration is exclusively online at www.ihk.de/sbh/soa.

Full program here>>> (German)