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"Germany Best "For U.S. Auto Parts Globalization

10 February 1998

Germany Shines as Choice Location for Globalizing U.S. Auto Suppliers, States Business Location Germany

                Opportunities in the German Automotive Market

    DETROIT, Feb. 10 -- "Germany is a prime location for U.S.
automotive suppliers intent on establishing or expanding an international
presence," says Rainer Bruderle, Deputy Governor and Minister of Economics and
Transportation of the German state of Rheinland-Pfalz.
    "With the recent uncertainty in Asian markets, it is a good time for U.S.
suppliers to reassess a presence in Germany, the key economy in the European
automotive industry," Bruderle adds.  "Combine Germany's market potential with
the benefits of far-reaching reform in the business environment and the
country's productive workforce, and Germany is unquestionably one of the most
attractive foreign markets for U.S. companies considering global expansion."
    Bruderle will be one of three featured speakers at the executive briefing
"Opportunities in the German Automotive Market," to be held at 8:30 a.m.,
Wednesday, Feb. 25, Rm. W2-60, at the SAE International Congress and
Exposition, Cobo Center, Detroit.
    Joining him are Helmut Weirich, manager of parts and accessories, German
Automobile Industry Association (VDA) and Michael Schuh, attorney at law,
Armstrong, Teasdale, Schafly & Davis.  The one-hour briefing will be followed
by a question-and-answer session.
    Sponsored by Business Location Germany, the forum is open to
organizations, institutions and individuals concerned with international
business development in the automotive sector.
    According to a recent survey by the Economic Intelligence Unit, Germany is
one of the 10 most attractive international locations for business and
investment in the next five years, due to its large market, modern
infrastructure and stable economy.
    "In addition to these advantages," Bruderle said, "we'll talk about the
current business climate in Germany, preparations for a common European
currency, and specific opportunities for U.S. automotive suppliers."
    VDA's Weirich, who will discuss trends in the German auto industry, notes
"In view of the ongoing restructuring and consolidation of the German supplier
base, many small and medium-size German companies are actively seeking to
solidify their competitive position worldwide through joint ventures with U.S.
Automotive suppliers.
    Weirich adds, "Germany has a sophisticated research and development
infrastructure.  In fact, 25% of all R & D expenditures in Germany are
concentrated in the automotive industry.  U.S. suppliers will find a large
supply of highly-skilled workers to support their R & D activities."
    Attorney Shuh will discuss how corporations can obtain further assistance
to establish joint ventures and subsidiary operations.  Participants also will
have an opportunity to obtain information on the automotive industry in
eastern Germany, where GM/Opel has the most productive auto plant in Europe.
    Additional information on business opportunities in Germany will be
available at the German Pavilion Booth #2801-A at the SAE Congress.
    Business Location Germany provides potential investors with free
information on business practices in Germany, set up and operating costs, and
securing investment incentives.  BLG, located in Chicago, is funded by
Germany's Ministry of Economics.

SOURCE  Business Location Germany