Ho Chi Minh City, 22 November 2025 — The German Business Association (GBA) welcomed 330 distinguished guests at the German Ball 2025, marking a significant milestone: 30 years of GBA’s presence in Vietnam. The event honored 30 years of partnership, community development, and strengthened German–Vietnamese relations.
The event was graced by the presence of Ms. Andrea Sühl, German Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City; Mr. Gábor Lehőcz, Consul General of Hungary; Mr. Werner Bardill, Consul General of Switzerland; and Mr. Tran Xuan Thuy, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Foreign Affairs (DOFA).
GBA was also honored to welcome several former Chairmen, former Board Members, and representatives from international chamber partners including EuroCham, CEEC, DBAV, ICham, InCham, JCCH, CTCVN, SBA, SingCham, and HKBAV, whose participation underlined the importance of collaboration across the business community.
Honoring Milestones and Shared Progress
In her keynote remarks, German Consul General Ms. Andrea Sühl highlighted the exceptional significance of 2025, a year that commemorates 50 years of diplomatic relations between Germany and Vietnam. She emphasized that these five decades have been “built on mutual trust, understanding, and a shared vision for a prosperous future,” and she recognized GBA’s pivotal role in strengthening business ties and supporting economic cooperation between the two countries.
GBA Chairman, Mr. Alexander Ziehe expressed heartfelt appreciation to members, partners, and former leaders who shaped the Association’s identity since its founding in 1995. “From a small network of German entrepreneurs, GBA has grown into the largest European business association in Vietnam, representing more than 400 members with professionalism, transparency, and commitment,” he remarked, acknowledging the dedication of those who laid the foundation for GBA’s enduring reputation.
According to Chairman Ziehe, GBA has remained steadfast in preserving the essence of German business culture: transparency, professionalism, and commitment while continuously innovating to guide its community through the evolving global business landscape. Signature events such as Oktoberfest, business excellence recognitions, and family-oriented community programs have all contributed to strengthening GBA’s identity as a “home” where members find connection, support, and a strong sense of belonging.
A Celebration of Legacy and Community
The German Ball 2025 honored the GBA 30th Anniversary and featured a special tribute recognizing founding members, former chairpersons, and long-serving employees, whose contributions have been instrumental in implementingGBA’s mission. Guests were invited to remember key milestones through an engaging GBA History Quiz, showcasing memorable moments from the Association’s three-decade journey in Vietnam.
The celebration also recreated GBA’s three-decade journey of growth, showcasing its comprehensive contributions to trade, investment, innovation, and cultural exchange. Since 1995, GBA has also played a meaningful role as a bridge between the two nations – actively supporting high-level delegations, state visits, and hosting flagship events that promote bilateral cooperation. Even in difficult times most notably during the Covid-19 pandemic, GBA demonstrated leadership by supporting Vietnam and safeguarding the well-being of its members and the wider community.
The evening offered cultural highlights, including the elegant Ball Kick-Off performance that set a festive and distinct German ambiance. A lively “King and Queen of the Night” voting added excitement, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere for the community to celebrate together.
As the German Ball 2025 concluded, GBA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic cooperation, fostering innovation, and enhancing cultural exchange between Vietnam and Germany. The Association looks forward to the next chapters of bilateral collaboration, filled with new opportunities, deeper partnerships, and a shared dedication to sustainable growth.
GBA extends its sincere appreciation to all sponsors whose unwavering support and partnership made the German Ball 2025 possible. Their contributions played a vital role in shaping a memorable celebration for this milestone year.
Platinum: Lotus Green Technology | Rheinland-Pfalz.Gold Vietnam Gold: BSH Home Appliances | Haus Luxury Cleaning Service | Qatar Airways | Siemens | Terraverde Silver: DIGI – TEXX Vietnam | Emeralda Management Group | HDS Service | Lighthouse Group Indochina | Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh | Robinson Nam Hoi An | Vinpearl Landmark 81, Autograph CollectionClick here for full photo album.
