This Monday marked an important milestone in UK-German relations as we co-hosted, together with the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) and the Federation of German Industries (BDI), the inaugural Germany-UK Business-Government Forum in Berlin. Bringing together more than 300 senior representatives from business, government, trade associations, and think tanks, the Forum underscored both the strength of the bilateral partnership and the shared ambition to deepen cooperation in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
These discussions come at a time when, according to our Spring Survey, German-British businesses continue to demonstrate resilience in the UK. Over half of companies report positive current performances, with many maintaining stable operations and an ongoing demand for talent. At the same time, overall economic confidence remains subdued. Businesses are taking a more cautious view of the short-term outlook, with weak growth expectations and a noticeable decline in investment appetite compared to previous months. Persistent structural challenges – including political uncertainty, Brexit-related barriers, and rising energy costs – continue to shape the operating environment.
Against this backdrop, the Forum provided a timely platform to address these issues and identify practical ways forward. Contributions from keynote speakers, including Germany’s Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, Katherina Reiche, and the UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, the Rt Hon Peter Kyle, highlighted both the strong foundations already in place and the clear need for enhanced cooperation. Discussions focused not only on strengthening Europe’s resilience but also on improving competitiveness, reducing regulatory friction, fostering innovation in areas such as defence, advanced manufacturing, energy and artificial intelligence, and enhancing skills including talent mobility to support long-term growth.
The Forum reaffirmed that a strengthened UK-German partnership will be vital in shaping a more innovative, resilient and outward-looking European economy. In the months and years ahead, the Chamber will focus on translating these insights into concrete action – and we are confident that, with the continued support of our members, we can turn shared ambition into tangible progress.
Dr Ulrich Hoppe
Director General
German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce
