Ho Chi Minh City, 9 August 2025 – The German Business Association (GBA) convened its Mid-Year 2025 Offsite Meeting, bringing together the Board and Executive Team to reflect on the achievements of the first half of the year and and align on initiatives to meet the goals for 2025 – a landmark year marking GBA’s 30th Anniversary.
Building on the GBA’s mission to strengthen and connect the German business community in Vietnam, the meeting focused on raising the quality and effectiveness of its services and events, extending geographical reach, and driving impactful advocacy for members. The agenda also reviewed ongoing initiatives to meet the membership goal of 425 members, with encouraging results showing that GBA is currently well on track. It underscored the Association’s commitment to ensuring that the second half of 2025 delivers exceptional value for members, fosters deeper connections, and offers special events for this milestone year.
Maximizing the Quality of the GBA Offering
In the first half of 2025, participation increased steadily across flagship events, Member-for-Member workshops, and networking sessions. All DeutschenTreff gatherings — offered with free entrance for members — attracted over 100 guests each, reflecting their strong appeal within the community. This success was further supported by close collaboration with AHK and the appointment of two dedicated regional representatives in Danang to strengthen outreach in Central Vietnam. Member feedback underscored the importance of earlier promotion, a broader range of distinguished speakers from various regions, and enhancements in program quality through upgraded venues and more impactful content delivery.
Extending Our Geographical Reach
GBA’s footprint in Hanoi and Da Nang continued to expand through targeted networking sessions, joint chamber collaborations, and industry-specific events. This progress has been further supported by the close collaboration with AHK and the appointment of two dedicated regional representatives in Danang to strengthen outreach in Central Vietnam. These efforts have helped sustain momentum, with plans for more consistent programming in the North and Central regions during the remainder of 2025.
Giving Back to Members
As part of its 30th Anniversary celebrations, GBA has extended special benefits to members through anniversary-themed events with favorable entrance fees and enhanced networking opportunities. These exclusive perks will continue at upcoming highlights, including Oktoberfest, the German Ball, and the Christmas Dinner, reinforcing community bonds at every gathering.
Strengthening Collaboration and Advocacy
The Association continues to deepen ties with other business chambers and government stakeholders to help shape a more favorable business environment. In September, GBA will launch its new Business Action Portal, designed to collect member feedback on business issues. At the same time, GBA will work closely with EuroCham to co-develop impactful programs and share EuroCham member benefits widely across its channels.
Upcoming Focus Areas
In the coming months, the Board will focus on delivering successful and memorable celebrations at key events: the GBA Business Awards 2025 (19 September), Oktoberfest 2025 (25, 26, 27 September in Hanoi; 3 October in Danang; 9, 10, 11 October in Ho Chi Minh City), and the German Ball – GBA 30th Anniversary (22 November). Efforts will also be made to encourage greater member participation and maintain strong performance during a busy event calendar by strengthening the team structure and streamlining processes, particularly in event operations and communications.
With a clear strategic direction, GBA is well-positioned to deliver high-quality, relevant, and engaging experiences for its members, expand its footprint nationwide, and advocate strongly for a better business environment. The remainder of 2025 will be dedicated to preparing for major milestones, ensuring that GBA’s 30th Anniversary year leaves a lasting legacy for the German business community in Vietnam.