How companies can build a successful African business

Berlin The African continent is still a blank spot on the map for many German companies – even though business and politics regularly emphasize their interest in Africa. Only one percent of all German business investments abroad go to Africa. At the same time, German foreign trade with African countries grew by 21.3 percent to a new record level, according to the state-owned company for foreign trade and location marketing. However, a higher value of goods was imported from Africa than exported there.

German companies often regard African countries as difficult investment targets. According to the prejudice, rampant corruption, a lack of infrastructure and security guarantees would make Africa as a whole a difficult location.

However, entrepreneurs who are active locally report not only challenges, but also opportunities. They give tips on how this potential can be used, companies can minimize risks and the German economy can be successful in Africa in the long term.