Delegation trips – defined by us as politically accompanied business trips – constitute a quite successful and essential format of Thuringia's foreign trade promotion, with both indirectly measurable and direct benefits. The political accompaniment is usually provided by the Thuringian Minister President and/or the Thuringian Minister of Economic Affairs.
In addition to the advantages of classic business trips, Thuringian companies and institutions particularly benefit from political support as a door opener for appointments and discussions with high-ranking decision-makers. Within the delegation, the individual actors appear as part of a strong group. This significantly increases external visibility and enhances perception. Concrete contracts, cooperation agreements, or MOUs are often already signed during the trips.
During the delegation trips, so-called “Investor Seminars” are also conducted, specifically targeting potential investors from the destination country. These often lead to new projects in the short term; in some cases, however, positive investment decisions only emerge after a longer period of time.
In addition, the Free State benefits in many other areas from an increased international profile through these trips: whether in promoting educational and research cooperation or in marketing Thuringia as a holiday destination.
This year, three delegation trips are already being considered and concretized in their planning: At the end of May, Minister President Mario Voigt will lead a delegation trip to India. Especially against the backdrop of the currently negotiated historic free trade agreement between the EU and India, with prospective tariff reductions for over 96 percent of goods, new business opportunities are opening up for Thuringian companies as well. Please find more information on our website soon. Further planned delegation trips will take place in November to Poland and the Mercosur region, specifically to Argentina and Brazil.
