Ho Chi Minh City, 3 November 2025 – To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the German Business Association (GBA) proudly inaugurated the “GBA Legacy in Frames” photo exhibition and hosted the dialogue “30 Years of GBA in Vietnam – From Đổi Mới to a Global Gateway.” The exhibition will be open to the public free of charge from 4–6 November at Deutsches Haus.
The event was honored by the presence of Ms. Andrea Sühl, Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Ho Chi Minh City, and Mr. Pham Dut Diem, Acting Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DOFA) in Ho Chi Minh City.
Legacy in Frames: A Journey of Partnership and Progress
The “GBA Legacy in Frames” exhibition offers a visual journey through three decades of German–Vietnamese collaboration, highlighting the milestones, people, and shared achievements that have shaped the success of both countries.
Since its founding in 1995, GBA has grown from a small group of pioneering German investors into a thriving community of over 400 members, representing the full spectrum of German industry in Vietnam.
The exhibition also honors German enterprises such as Siemens, Bosch, Schaeffler, B. Braun, Bayer, and Messer, exemplifying the spirit of partnership, innovation, and sustainable growth that has defined the bilateral relationship.
The stories on display vividly showcase the cooperation, friendship, and resilience that have shaped 30 years of GBA and 50 years of diplomatic relations between Germany and Vietnam.
Vietnam’s Development Journey: From Reconstruction to Global Gateway
The dianolose, moderated by Ms. Minh Nguyen, GBA Vice Chairwoman, and Mr. Max Rummert, GBA Treasurer, reflected Vietnam’s historical development through key periods:
New Beginnings – Reunification and Central Planning (1975–1985):
After reunification, Vietnam entered a challenging period of post-war reconstruction. Despite economic hardships, the resilience and solidarity of its people laid the foundation for future transformation.
Đổi Mới and Opening Up (1986–1994):
The 1986 Đổi Mới policy marked a pivotal shift from a centrally planned economy to a market-oriented system, opening doors for international collaboration. During this era, German investors first arrived in Vietnam, leading to the establishment of GBA in 1995 – a symbol of mutual trust and shared vision.
Global Integration and the Future Ahead (1995–Present):
Over the past three decades, Vietnam has emerged as one of Asia’s most dynamic economies and a strategic partner for German enterprises. Despite challenges such as an aging population, rapid urbanization, and climate change, Vietnam continues to thrive through innovation, education, and international cooperation.
Vietnam’s story is one of transformation and sustainable development – overcoming war, isolation, and hardship to become a trusted partner of Germany and Europe in the modern era.
People as the Foundation of Sustainable Development
During the discussion, speakers emphasized that Vietnam’s ambition to develop high-quality human resources must go hand in hand with international collaboration, vocational training, and research partnerships between Vietnamese and German universities, such as the Vietnam–Germany University (VGU).
Ms. Ton Nu Thi Ninh, President of the HCMC Peace & Development Foundation remarked: “Vietnam managed to open its economy without losing its social cohesion. That balance has been key to our long-term success.” She also highlighted the importance of developing a non-profit, quality-driven higher education system to nurture the next generation of professionals and engineers, contributing to Vietnam’s sustainable future
Mr. Vo Quang Hue, Chairman of FoundryAI Vietnam, highlighted the importance of technology and knowledge transfer, emphasizing how these are essential for fostering innovation and sustainable development in Vietnam.
Technological collaboration and knowledge sharing have also been vital in shaping Vietnam’s growth over the past three decades – from the early days of market reform to its current position as one of the most dynamic economies in Asia.
Mr. Christian-Ludwig Weber-Lortsch, Senior Economic Advisor & EuroCham Advisory Board Member in Hanoi reflected on the early days of GBA:“The decision to reform and recognize the role of private enterprise was a crucial turning point that enabled Vietnam to grow as it has today.”
Honoring Legacy – Looking Towards the Future
The GBA Legacy in Frames exhibition not only commemorates the association’s 30-year journey but also inspires future collaboration, strengthening business ties, promoting innovation, and nurturing German–Vietnamese friendship for decades to come.
As part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, GBA will also host the “German Ball 2025” on 22 November in Ho Chi Minh City, a grand gala marking 30 years of GBA in Vietnam – a moment for the German – Vietnamese business community to celebrate past achievements and look ahead to a sustainable future. Learn more at: https://gba-vietnam.org/eventer/gba-german-ball-2025/.
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