More than 120 companies – including large corporations – will be represented at the 88th Thessaloniki International Trade Fair (TIF), where Germany will be the guest country, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, Andreas Kindle, said in an interview withTemporary” It is Michalis Psilos.
Kindle noted that Germany’s role as an honorable country “also gives us the opportunity to look to the future, launch innovative partnerships and investments, and showcase the performance of German companies operating in Greece.”
The German ambassador told “Naftemporiki” that the opening of the TIF will be attended by Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck and German Minister of Food and Agriculture Cem Ozdemir. Former federal technician Otto Rehagel will also be present.
Asked about Germany’s expectations as a guest of honour at the 88th TIF, Andreas Kindle emphasised: “Let us start by stating that political relations between Greece and Germany are close and governed by a spirit of mutual trust. I see this every day as ambassador to Greece. This was proven by the bilateral consultations at deputy ministerial level that took place at the end of May in Athens.”
Close relationships
“These close relations go beyond the political framework and also extend to the economic sector. Our bilateral relations are also based on a long tradition. And at this point, I would like to remind you that the Hellenic-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry is celebrating 100 years since its foundation this year.”
Sir, there is a huge interest from over 120 German companies from all 16 federal states. Can you provide us with more details?
Yes, indeed. The interest of the exhibitors is impressive. The range of companies represented includes a number of start-ups as well as large listed companies. It also includes a range of highly specialized research institutions and vocational training programs. In Thessaloniki, you will be able to learn about the range of products of German companies in Greece and what German entities can offer in the areas of digitalization, renewable energy sources, freight forwarding services, healthcare, education and research, as well as disaster prevention.
German investments are impressive
Germany ranks second in terms of direct investment in Greece, with nearly one billion euros. Are there prospects for further growth and in which sectors?
In fact, in 2022, net German investments in Greece amounted to almost one billion euros. These are impressive figures that highlight the potential of German companies in this country. Incidentally, this is not a new phenomenon. For decades, even in times of crisis, German companies have believed in the country’s potential and invested tirelessly. Germany has been at the top of the rankings of international investors for years. But I am also very optimistic about the future. It is clear that the Greek economy has recovered after the blows it suffered during the crisis years and is also developing remarkable economic dynamics. This attracts the interest of investors mainly from Germany. German investors are interested in all sectors of the economy. My personal opinion is that, for example, the renewable energy sector is particularly attractive.
Total foreign trade transactions between Greece and Germany exceeded 12 billion euros last year. Are there prospects for further growth?
Trade in goods and services obviously depends on many factors that we cannot control and some of which we cannot even predict. But I believe we have every reason to be optimistic.
22.2% more German tourists in the first five months
A good example of the current recovery is the increase in the number of German tourists in Greece. As I have already said, I believe that we can also be optimistic about the interest of German tourists in Greece as a travel destination. We Germans – and I am one of them – love Greece and its hospitality. However, in support of this conclusion, the Bank of Greece has presented evidence confirming it. In the first five months of 2024, the number of visitors from Germany increased by 22.2% compared to the corresponding five months of 2023. Revenues increased by 15.1% compared to the first five months of 2023.
Is it true that Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection Dr. Robert Habeck will be present at the opening of the TIF?
Yes, Vice Chancellor Habeck has announced that he will be present at the opening of the fair. Furthermore, we are expecting the Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture Cem Ozdemir in Thessaloniki on the opening weekend. This shows how important the fair is for Germany, for German companies and also for the Federal Government.
It is said that many “German surprises” await visitors, such as the appearance of a top German band on the fair’s large outdoor stage…
What I can say is that a varied programme is planned, with over 150 events, which will be presented in front of and of course inside the German Motor Show 13. We will show visitors traditional Germany, but also the colourful and modern one. The programme will include a bit of German motorsport history, but also a bit of Greek sporting history. That is why we are very happy about Otto Rehagel’s visit on 9 September. In addition, there will be musical highlights in the area of indie rock and jazz. More details to come when “Hallo Ellada!” will be heard in Thessaloniki.