PHDCCI hosts Interactive Session on Global Trade and Investment Opportunities for the Indian Industry in Germany

New Delhi, November 14, 2025: The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) organised an Interactive Session on Global Trade and Investment Opportunities for the Indian Industry in Germany, featuring senior representatives from the German Embassy and Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI). The event aimed to strengthen bilateral economic relations and encourage Indian companies to explore strategic investments, research collaborations, and market access in Germany.
Dr. Stephan Hesselmann, Economic Minister Counsellor, Economic and Global Affairs at the German Embassy, New Delhi, emphasised Germany’s openness to new partnerships and the growing importance of India in global value chains. “Germany is an open and industrially strong economy, and India has become a preferred partner for Europe. We want to take part in India’s success story, driven by competitive policies, the Make in India movement, and the country’s remarkable 6 to 8 percent growth rate,” he said.
Dr. Hesselmann highlighted that Germany, the world’s third-largest economy, boasts a robust engineering and industrial base. He noted that over 2,500 German companies are already operating in India, while more than 750 Indian firms have established a presence in Germany. “India’s young and dynamic workforce complements Germany’s advanced technological expertise. Together, we can build resilient supply chains and innovation-driven growth,” he added.
Seema Bhardwaj, Director (India), Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI), provided detailed insights into Germany’s business landscape and support mechanisms for foreign investors. “Germany lies at the heart of Europe, offering unparalleled logistics where products can reach any part of the EU within 24 hours. Beyond location, our nation stands out for its research and innovation culture. Germany’s R&D budget surpasses that of the UK and France combined,” she shared.
Responding to perceptions about Germany’s cost structures, Ms. Bhardwaj clarified, “Taxes and costs can vary significantly across regions, and many municipalities provide tailored incentives for investors. Moreover, GTAI offers free and confidential advisory services to help Indian businesses select ideal locations, navigate regulations, and access financial and state-level support.” Highlighting the strong people-to-people linkages, she shared that 60,000 Indian students are currently enrolled in German universities and that Indians employed in Germany are among the highest income groups in the country.
Vijay Mehta, Chair, International Affairs - Europe & CIS, PHDCCI, welcomed the speakers and reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to fostering international partnerships. “Germany represents a gateway to Europe’s high-value markets and a world-class ecosystem of research and manufacturing. We see immense opportunities for collaboration in engineering, e-mobility, green energy, and digital innovation,” he remarked.
Vikas Khanduri, Co-Chair, International Affairs Committee for Europe & CIS, appreciated the German government’s proactive approach, noting that “India and Germany share a deep commitment to sustainable growth and industrial excellence.” He also emphasised the opportunities available through Germany’s major trade fairs which serve as global platforms for Indian businesses.
Dr. Ranjit Singh, Chair, Taskforce on Paints and Coatings, PHDCCI, invited German paint and chemical companies to collaborate with Indian counterparts. “Germany’s paint industry is valued at over USD 8 billion, and several German companies already have successful operations in India. With our strong domestic demand and cost advantages, joint collaborations can be highly beneficial,” he said.
Manisha Singh, Senior Secretary, International Affairs, PHDCCI,  emphasized the importance of fostering bilateral relations between Germany and India, as well as the role of strong economic ties in driving mutual growth. She also highlighted how international collaborations through organizations like PHDCCI contribute to enhancing bilateral trade, investment cooperation, and overall economic development between the two nations. These efforts are recognized as crucial for strengthening not only economic bonds but also broader diplomatic ties between Germany and India.
The session concluded with widespread agreement that both countries are ready to further enhance their economic and technological collaboration. India’s fast-expanding market and Germany’s international reputation in manufacturing and innovation are setting the stage for new possibilities in sustainable trade, research and development, and joint industrial ventures.