Latest news with #AHK


The Star
20-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
German businesses in Vietnam navigate shifts
A GBA delegation participates in a conference on building regional and international financial centres in Vietnam. Photo courtesy of German Business Association HO CHI MINH CITY: German businesses in Vietnam have maintained optimism and a long-term commitment to the Vietnamese market despite facing numerous challenges, experts say. In its latest media update, the German Business Association (GBA) expressed confidence in the country's resilience and promising investment prospects. 'The continuous efforts to sustain operations, promote cooperation and engage in sustainable development initiatives have affirmed Vietnam's position as a strategic investment destination. 'With a stable political environment, a rapidly developing economy, and reforms in investment policies, Vietnam continues to be the preferred choice for German companies in expanding and strengthening their presence in the Asian region,' the association stressed. In a recent survey by AHK World Business Outlook Spring 2025, companies recognised both opportunities and risks in Vietnam, navigating local challenges while capitalising on the country's increasing role in global supply chains. Despite the timing of the survey coinciding with the announcement of US tariffs, many respondents had not fully assessed their potential impact. Nevertheless, the results underscore Vietnam's enduring appeal in an evolving global landscape. The survey revealed that German companies worldwide are adjusting to new tariffs and global dynamics, with their counterparts in Vietnam adopting a balanced outlook amidst changing circumstances. Despite ongoing global disruptions, 54% of German companies in Vietnam expect an improvement in their business situation within the next year. A significant 80% rated their current business situation as either 'good' or 'satisfactory', highlighting a relatively stable operating environment. Confidence is also seen in forward-looking decisions, with 38% of companies planning to increase their investments, while 43% expect their workforce to grow in 2025. During the first months of the year, German businesses in Vietnam continued to demonstrate strong engagement, strategic adaptability, and a long-term commitment to Vietnam's dynamic economy. The GBA reported maintaining strong connections with the international business community and local authorities in Vietnam through significant events. Various business meetings were organised in both Germany and Vietnam, reaffirming the long-term strategic presence of German businesses and the GBA's commitment to sustainable development in Vietnam. The confidence of German companies in Vietnam's long-term prospects is attributed to factors such as a growing middle class, an expanding domestic market, a stable political environment, improving macroeconomic indicators, ongoing efforts to enhance digital infrastructure, and green transition policies. — Viet Nam News/ANN


Gulf Today
09-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Economic partnerships are pillars of growth stimulation: RAK Ruler
His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, affirmed that economic and investment partnerships with various strategic partners are a fundamental pillar for stimulating economic growth, advancing sustainable development, and reinforcing Ras Al Khaimah's rising status as a leading destination for business prosperity and corporate growth. This came during Sheikh Saud's reception on Thursday at his palace in the Saqr Bin Mohammed City, of Sybille Pfaff, Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, along with a delegation from the German-Emirati Joint Council for Industry and Commerce (AHK). The meeting was also attended by senior officials from the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). The meeting reviewed bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and Germany, with a particular focus on trade, investment, and innovation. It also highlighted recent developments in Ras Al Khaimah across sectors such as infrastructure, industry, and investment growth. Discussions explored future cooperation prospects between RAKEZ and the German-Emirati Council, especially in supporting German companies and enhancing joint initiatives. The conversation also covered the emirate's flourishing economic and investment environment, German companies' outlook in the region, and ways to strengthen their operating landscape. The meeting also involved a productive exchange of ideas on business opportunities and development projects in the emirate. It emphasised Ras Al Khaimah's strategic assets, which include a competitive business environment, advanced infrastructure, and a vital geographic location. Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between RAKEZ and the AHK, aimed at building a strategic partnership to support development goals and foster mutual growth. The MoU was signed by Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of RAKEZ, Dr Martin Henkelmann, CEO of AHK. The MoU stipulates enhanced support for both new and existing members of the Council, as well as RAKEZ's partner base, through joint initiatives aimed at business growth, knowledge exchange, and international connectivity. The MoU comes as part of ongoing efforts between both parties to solidify strategic cooperation and strengthen economic and industrial ties between Ras Al Khaimah and the German business community. In turn, Sybille Pfaff and the Council's delegation expressed their deep appreciation to Sheikh Saud for the warm welcome and generous hospitality. They praised the strong economic ties between the UAE and Germany, Sheikh Saud's visionary leadership, and the emirate's advanced investment environment. In February, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) announced a significant milestone in 2024, with 13,141 new companies joining its thriving ecosystem. This represents an impressive 66% growth in new registrations compared to 2023. With this achievement, RAKEZ is now home to nearly 30,000 multinational companies, reinforcing its status as a leading global hub for business excellence. The growth in 2024 has been driven primarily by commercial activities, including general trading, e-commerce, and related businesses, which together accounted for 53% of the new company registrations. This reinforces RAKEZ's reputation as a thriving hub for traders and businesses seeking strategic access to regional and global markets. Consultancy followed as a key contributor at 24%, with other notable sectors including media and marketing services, wholesale trading, and manufacturing, among many others. This sectoral diversity highlights RAKEZ's ability to cater to the evolving demands of businesses across a wide range of industries, further solidifying its role as a global business enabler. 'Over the past five years, RAKEZ has welcomed double the number of companies to its flourishing business community, reflecting the growing appeal of Ras Al Khaimah as a hub for innovation and global trade,' said Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of RAKEZ. 'This growth highlights our commitment to offering tailored support, streamlined services, and an enabling environment where businesses can expand and reach their full potential. As our community continues to grow, we remain focused on fostering long-term success and unlocking new opportunities for businesses of all sizes and sectors.' Entrepreneurs and companies from around the world contributed to this growth, with India leading the way as the top source of new businesses. This reflects RAKEZ's ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with India through strategic initiatives, such as fostering trade relations and leveraging the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). WAM


Zawya
09-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
RAK Ruler supports RAKEZ and AHK strategic partnership
Ras Al Khaimah: His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, recently witnessed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing between Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) and the German Emirati Joint Council for Industry and Commerce (AHK) in the presence of Federal Republic of Germany in Dubai and the Northern Emirates Consul General Sybille Pfaff. The agreement, signed by RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad and AHK CEO Dr Martin Henkelmann, marks a significant step in strengthening economic and industrial ties between Ras Al Khaimah and Germany. It lays the groundwork for a collaborative framework to support both RAKEZ's expanding client base and AHK's network of over 750 member companies through joint initiatives focused on business growth, knowledge exchange, and international outreach. Commenting on the partnership, RAKEZ Group CEO Ramy Jallad said, 'Our partnership with AHK is built on shared values and a common vision to enable business success. By combining our strengths, we aim to create a supportive pathway for German companies looking to set up and grow in Ras Al Khaimah, while also opening new opportunities for collaboration and innovation between our two business communities.' Dr Martin said, 'For many years, German companies have built a strong presence in the UAE thanks to its strategic location, strong economy, and supportive business climate. Ras al Khaimah, in particular, has experienced impressive growth in recent years, drawing an increasing number of German firms and investors. Ras al Khaimah demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing its infrastructure and services to support business growth and investment, and we see a great potential for German companies in the future. Our strategic partnership with RAKEZ marks a significant milestone in strengthening the ties between our networks.' Leading up to the MoU signing, RAKEZ and AHK co-hosted a business breakfast in Ras Al Khaimah. The event brought together key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, featuring a panel discussion with representatives from RAKEZ, Ras Al Khaimah Municipality, Marjan, and Stirling Hospitality. The session highlighted Ras Al Khaimah's dynamic real estate and hospitality sectors, its rise as a manufacturing and logistics hub, and its strategic appeal to international investors. With more than 1,000 German companies already thriving within its ecosystem—including Maico Gulf, Knauf RAK, Haver Middle East, Inoclad Middle East, and EuroEstates Properties Services—RAKEZ continues to serve as a gateway for international businesses looking to establish and grow in the UAE. This partnership with AHK reflects the economic zone's ongoing commitment to cultivating meaningful international collaborations and advancing Ras Al Khaimah's role as a competitive, investor-friendly destination on the global stage. About Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ): RAKEZ is a powerhouse business and industrial hub established by the Government of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. It currently hosts over 30,000 companies coming from over 100+ countries and operating in more than 50 industries. RAKEZ offers entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs and manufacturers a wide-range of solutions, including free zone and non-free zone licences, customisable facilities, and first-class services provided in a one-stop shop. Furthermore, RAKEZ has specialised zones that are tailored to specific needs of investors: Al Nakheel and Al Hamra Business Zones for commercial and service companies; Al Ghail, Al Hamra and Al Hulaila Industrial Zones for manufacturers and industrialists; and an Academic Zone for educational providers. A leading economic zone, RAKEZ aims to continue attracting diversified investment opportunities that will contribute to the economic growth of Ras Al Khaimah.


Sharjah 24
08-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
RAK Ruler reaffirms commitment to strategic economic partnerships
Reception of German delegation This came during Sheikh Saud's reception today at his palace in the Saqr bin Mohammed City, of Sybille Pfaff, Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, along with a delegation from the German-Emirati Joint Council for Industry and Commerce (AHK). The meeting was also attended by senior officials from the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). Focus on UAE-Germany bilateral economic relations The meeting reviewed bilateral relations between the United Arab Emirates and Germany, with a particular focus on trade, investment, and innovation. It also highlighted recent developments in Ras Al Khaimah across sectors such as infrastructure, industry, and investment growth. Discussion on cooperation opportunities Discussions explored future cooperation prospects between RAKEZ and the German-Emirati Council, especially in supporting German companies and enhancing joint initiatives. The conversation also covered the emirate's flourishing economic and investment environment, German companies' outlook in the region, and ways to strengthen their operating landscape. Strategic strengths of Ras Al Khaimah highlighted The meeting also involved a productive exchange of ideas on business opportunities and development projects in the emirate. It emphasised Ras Al Khaimah's strategic assets, which include a competitive business environment, advanced infrastructure, and a vital geographic location. MoU signing ceremony His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between RAKEZ and the AHK, aimed at building a strategic partnership to support development goals and foster mutual growth. Details of the MoU agreement The MoU was signed by Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of RAKEZ, and Dr Martin Henkelmann, CEO of AHK. The MoU stipulates enhanced support for both new and existing members of the Council, as well as RAKEZ's partner base, through joint initiatives aimed at business growth, knowledge exchange, and international connectivity. Strengthening Ras Al Khaimah-German business ties The MoU comes as part of ongoing efforts between both parties to solidify strategic cooperation and strengthen economic and industrial ties between Ras Al Khaimah and the German business community. Appreciation from German delegation In turn, Sybille Pfaff and the Council's delegation expressed their deep appreciation to H.H. Sheikh Saud for the warm welcome and generous hospitality. They praised the strong economic ties between the UAE and Germany, His Highness Sheikh Saud's visionary leadership, and the emirate's advanced investment environment.


African Manager
03-05-2025
- Business
- African Manager
Ten Tunisian IT Companies to Showcase at GITEX Europe in Berlin
The Tunisian-German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK) will select ten Tunisian IT companies to participate in GITEX Europe 2025, Europe's premier technology exhibition, taking place from May 21–23, 2025 in Berlin, Germany. The selection follows a call for applications launched by AHK Tunisia in partnership with GIZ under the Tech216 project, supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through its 'Decent Work for a Just Transition' initiative. Implemented by GIZ Tunisia, the initiative sets the application deadline for May 4, 2025. Eligible companies specialize in IT services, offshoring, and outsourcing, including: software development, business process outsourcing (BPO), devOps, IT support, Cloud computing and Artificial intelligence (AI). Participation will enable Tunisian businesses to position Tunisia as a regional tech and outsourcing hub, exhibit cutting-edge IT solutions to global clients, engage in curated B2B matchmaking sessions, gain exclusive visibility in the dedicated Tech216 pavilion and receive strategic support to compete as premium digital service providers internationally. Marking GITEX's European debut after successful editions in Dubai and Africa, this flagship event accelerates the continent's tech ecosystem by connecting innovators, government representatives and industry leaders. The summit drives public-private collaboration and fuels Europe's digital economy transformation.