Economic prowess: Germany is the largest economy in the European Union and the third largest in the world. With the highest GDP and the largest number of inhabitants in the EU, Germany is Europe’s most important market. Gross Domestic Product comes to EUR 2,247 billion (2005), GNP per capita is EUR 27,253.

Export: Germany is the world’s leading exporter: the volume of goods exported came to EUR 786 billion in 2005. Key trading partners: France (10.3%), USA (8.8%), Great Britain (8.3%), Italy (7.1%).

Structure: Alongside internationally active corporations, SMEs form the backbone of the German economy. Around 70% of all employees work in small and medium sized enterprises.

Key sectors: Car-making; mechanical, electrical and precision engineering; chemicals; environmental technology; optics; medical technology; biotech and genetic engineering; nanotechnology; aerospace; logistics.

Investment magnet: Germany strongly attracts foreign investors. The world’s 500 largest corporations are present here, a total of 22,000 foreign companies with a total staff of 2.7 million. Foreign direct investments amounted to US$ 544.6 billion in 2003.

Infrastructure: Germany has a highly developed infrastructure that is growing dynamically. Its rail network covers 36,000 km, and the road network 230,000 km. The country boasts one of the world’s most modern phone and communication networks.

Trade fairs: About two thirds of all the world’s keynote trade fairs take place in Germany (about 140 international trade fairs).