The World for the fourth time in Giessen

On 9 and 10 June 2026, Giessen functioned as a pivotal hub, seamlessly connecting Africa, Latin America, North America, Asia and Europe. During the fourth international B2B conference, titled 'The World meets in Giessen', a diverse array of prominent figures converged to foster collaboration and generate business opportunities. This distinguished gathering brought together prominent entrepreneurs, esteemed ambassadors, representatives of trade associations and chambers of commerce, and influential figures from business development organisations.
The "The World meets in Giessen" (TWmiG) conference aimed to build bridges between continents and create a platform for international exchange. As participant Calvin Murungi from "East African Pioneers" explained: "Prior to contractual agreements, it is essential to establish and nurture relationships." It is only once a foundation of trust has been established that viable contracts can be established. For this purpose, 180 participants convened at the Giessen Congress Hall on 9 and 10 June.
Matthias Leder, Chief Executive of the Giessen-Friedberg Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: "The objective of 'The World meets in Giessen' is to establish essential connections, provide a platform and create opportunities." He made these comments as he welcomed the visitors. He emphasised the increasing uncertainties in international trade. "We are dedicated to the principles of open markets and international cooperation, as they are beneficial to businesses."

Cooperation with the Global South driven by strategic conviction

In her opening address, Petra Warnecke, Head of the Africa Division at the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ), emphasised that the time for a wait-and-see approach must be over. The recent economic growth in Africa, Asia and Latin America has resulted in the emergence of new industry and innovation hubs.
Germany and Europe have so far often had too little presence there, even though these markets are already growing today.
She went on to say: "The region's high growth rates, young demographic structure and rapidly expanding middle class make Africa a pivotal region for the future." Furthermore, Africa is gaining geopolitical significance due to the debates and conflicts surrounding raw materials, energy and supply chains. Warnecke advocated for cooperation with the Global South: "This approach has been shown to reduce dependencies, strengthen resilience and create mutual prosperity. It is not driven by 'charitable' development aid, but rather by strategic conviction."

“Less aid, more trade”

The African representatives adopted Warnecke's proposal and called on Germany and Europe to expand trade relations with their continent. The following motto was proposed by them: "less aid, more trade". Segun H. Olugbile of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mining and Agriculture (NACCIMA) introduced the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). He believes that the region's importance is growing, as evidenced by several factors, including its large consumer base of 400 million, its predominantly young population, and the presence of strategically important raw materials.
During the conference's first panel discussion, Igor César, Rwanda's ambassador to Germany, called on Europeans to increase their presence in Africa: "Come and don't wait!" He observed that competition was intense, highlighting the significant presence of other countries, such as China, in this field. The panel, which also included representatives from Turkey, South Korea and Hong Kong, made it clear that the rest of the world – and in particular the Global South – was not waiting for Europe.
Claudia Voß, Managing Director of the German-African Business Association, also called for greater European engagement, but pointed out: "In Africa, we are not dealing with one market, but with 54." Mark Heinzel, Head of the North and Latin America Division at the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DIHK), raised this issue on the second day of the conference. To ensure their voices are heard more clearly by the European Union, he advised the African conference participants: "Join forces and speak with

From A for foreign investment to Z for certification

The following key topics dominated proceedings on both mornings:
Here we present some strategies for foreign direct investment that have been proven to be successful.
This report examines the opportunities and challenges currently being experienced by businesses in African markets, with a particular focus on those operating in Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire.
The potential for Latin America and the Mercosur Agreement as a strategic partner region for both Germany and Europe is significant.
The role of standards, certifications and visa regimes as competitive factors
The importance of education, dual vocational training and skilled workers in a global context.
The agenda also included a discussion of the current international energy crisis and the repercussions of the war in Iran. It is evident that the ongoing instability in the Gulf region has far-reaching global implications.
In a video message, Rudolf Scharping, former Federal Minister of Defence, emphasised that energy and raw materials crises affect the entire global economy. He called for a renewed strengthening of rules-based economic competition worldwide and for the promotion of fair cooperation.

Nigeria as a gateway to West Africa

Nigeria played a key role in several formats. At the side event, the speaker presented a case for Nigeria as a market with more to offer than is generally recognised. How German-Nigerian trade relations can be strengthened' Tobias Friedrich of Soventix GmbH spoke about the corporate strategy of the solar specialist, which develops large-scale energy solutions and solar parks: 'Africa is our core market. Our strategic plan involved expanding into the African market. He also mentioned that entering the Nigerian market had involved a steep learning curve. The company was established with one European employee and a small number of Nigerian colleagues, and it took some time to find the right partners. The result is a team of more than 20 employees. Nigeria now serves as the company's "gateway to West Africa", for example for projects in Sierra Leone. Friedrich recommended that companies make use of the opportunities offered by the German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHKs). He emphasised the importance of being introduced to the country by experts.
Patrick Federl from the Import Promotion Desk (IPD) spoke about supporting small and medium-sized European enterprises in their business activities in Africa and around the world. The Berlin-based organisation is funded by the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and has 21 partner countries worldwide. The absence of Nigeria from the group has prompted the Nigerian representatives and the Federal Government to work towards establishing a partnership. Samirah Saleh from the Nigerian Women's Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCIMA) highlighted the role of women in Nigeria, noting that many women lack access to finance, visibility, digital skills and knowledge of export requirements. The association is working to raise awareness among its members and establish partnerships to secure improved conditions.

Central Hesse as a region of innovation

Jens Ihle and Christian Piterek, representing Regional Management Central Hesse, delivered a presentation on the business location of Central Hesse. They described it as a cohesive economic area extending beyond district boundaries. They emphasised the region's innovative capacity, encompassing niche industrial specialisms, energy technologies and environmental solutions.
The medium-sized companies Dittelbach and Kerzler, as well as AD Solutions – both based in Gießen – provided insights into their international activities. Dittelbach and Kerzler is a family-run business that specialises in the development and manufacture of robust switches and switchgear for industrial applications. Lara-Kristin Maas, Executive Assistant, presented the range of highly specialised solutions and, referring to the diverse specialist applications the company supplies worldwide, emphasised: "We consider it our duty to go the extra mile." AD Solutions is a consultancy firm with many years of international experience in the field of biogas technology. The company's portfolio offers development potential for many countries and regions.

The National Economic Plan of Côte d'Ivoire

Another side event focused on Côte d'Ivoire. Sandrine Tengine presented the "National Development Plan 2026–2030", which identifies seven industrial sectors and other growth industries. Cocoa exports have historically dominated, but the country is aiming to diversify its economic structure. One of the primary objectives is to establish a prominent position as a "pharmaceutical hub" in West Africa.
On 10 June, Mark Heinzel from the DIHK delivered a presentation on "Mercosur", a free trade agreement that covers more than 700 million people and is therefore one of the largest in the world. As a proven expert on Latin America, he provided insights into a number of countries in the region, including Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. Germany enjoys excellent relations with Latin America and is strategically interested in raw materials. This diversification is of particular importance for Europe.

Focus on markets, sectors and best practices

In the afternoon, the conference programme included a variety of events, including pitch and matching sessions, and thematic forums. Representatives of companies, associations and institutions from various regions and continents presented themselves and their projects, ranging from energy and infrastructure to the agricultural and food sectors, and on to IT and services. In addition, there was ample opportunity for networking. On the first evening, IHK President Rainer Schwarz greeted the participants with a barbecue.
At the conclusion of the two-day intensive programme, Matthias Leder expressed his profound satisfaction, stating that the numerous discussions, panels and side events had demonstrated a strong commitment to cooperation from all participants, both in Germany and in the partner countries of Africa, Latin America, North America and Asia.
He drew parallels between the value of conferences such as "The World meets in Giessen" and the possibilities offered by artificial intelligence. "AI can replace many things, but one thing it cannot replicate is the human element of face-to-face interactions and the passion of the participants." Leder formally invited representatives to the fifth TWmiG conference, which is scheduled to take place in 2028. This longer lead time will allow for more planning and is intended to give international guests more time for visa procedures, thereby facilitating their attendance.
Stand: 19.08.2026