Germany has strong business and investment freedom and German law makes no distinction between Germans and foreign nationals regarding investments or the establishment of companies.
Germany also hosts some of the world’s largest trade events, such as MEDICA, Hannover Fair, Automechanika, Anuga and the ITB Tourism Show.
Tax
A general goods and services tax of 19 percent is levied. A lower rate of seven percent is applied to some items.
Logistics
There are many options in routes and airlines for New Zealanders flying to Germany, but air freight space for fresh products may at times be limited, depending on the season.
Frankfurt airport is a major European hub. There are 19 international airports in other German cities.
The German international harbours are located in Hamburg, Bremen, Wilhelmshaven, Lübeck and Rostock. There is ample sea freight capability between New Zealand and Germany.
Opportunities
- Germany has the largest organics market in Europe. All retail chains have organic product ranges and organic food categories with significant growth levels include infant nutrition, alcoholic beverages and meat.
- Germany is the third largest market for medical devices in the world. Opportunities for New Zealand companies exist with large medical device companies who are seeking to secure new innovation.
- Supermarkets are increasingly using fresh fish counters as a point of difference. Greenshell mussels are the main seafood export to Germany from New Zealand, but other species such as Red Gurnard and Black Oreo Dory are also in demand.
- The sale of foods with functionality is increasing. This offers opportunities for New Zealand companies to sell intellectual property for functional ingredients as well as to partner with European companies to jointly develop ingredients.
- German students are very mobile. New Zealand has become a popular destination for language, secondary and tertiary students as well as for internships. This trend is expected to continue.
- By cooperating with a German partner, New Zealand aviation component manufacturers or providers of design and engineering services should be able to tap into niche opportunities within the German aircraft and aviation services industry.
Cultural and business tips
- New Zealand passport holders can enter Germany on a valid passport and a return airline ticket for up to three months. Passports must be valid for at least another three months beyond the expected time of departure.
- Don’t assume everyone will speak English, though most export managers should speak reasonable English.
- It is not appropriate to request appointments from large organisations at short notice. Long lead times are generally to be expected. Punctuality with appointments is vital.
- Accommodation and daily expenses in Germany are fairly high compared with New Zealand.
- Labelling products in German shows a commitment to the market.
