The AHK is the only chamber of commerce abroad that covers three independent countries: Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The three countries, which are perceived as ‘the Baltic States’, have a lot in common in terms of history, but just as many differences in terms of business, law, politics and, last but not least, language and culture. The AHK Baltic States is therefore present at three locations with a total of over 30 employees: in Tallinn (Estonia), Riga (Latvia) and Vilnius (Lithuania).
Four countries - one partner
With more than 470 member companies, it offers excellent networking opportunities for German and Baltic companies. In-depth knowledge of the German market supports Baltic companies wishing to establish or expand business relations with Germany.
German companies wishing to conquer the markets in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania can find the best location in three countries for their project with the help of the German-Baltic Chamber of Commerce.
Association and service organisation
The German-Baltic Chamber of Commerce in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania e.V. is registered as an association in Germany. The three service companies in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania offer members and customers a wide range of services and advice for successful market entry. In addition, the AHK actively represents the interests of its member companies vis-à-vis governments and authorities.
Worldwide network
The AHK Baltic States is part of a global network of German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHKs) in over 93 countries at 150 locations. The AHK is subsidised by the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection on the basis of a resolution of the German Bundestag. AHKs in Germany are closely linked to the network of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHKs). Together, IHKs and AHKs support German companies in establishing and expanding their economic relations with foreign countries. The umbrella organisation of the IHKs is the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DIHK) in Berlin, which also coordinates and supervises the AHK network.
Three functions of the German Chambers of Commerce Abroad
- Official representations of the German economy: The AHKs are the central actors of German foreign trade promotion on behalf of the Federal Republic of Germany. They represent German business interests at their locations. They provide information about and promote Germany as a business location.
- Member organisations: The AHKs bring together companies that are active in bilateral economic relations. These members lend the AHK weight and a voice when dealing with politics, business and administration to promote bilateral economic relations.
- Service provider for companies: The German Chambers of Commerce Abroad offer companies from Germany and the respective host country services to support their foreign trade activities.