About the state
North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), situated in the heart of Europe and bordering the Netherlands and Belgium, is making a name among investors for excellent business environment.
A well-developed transportation network, highly qualified manpower, strong research and development capability and strong support for startups are key factors that attract global businesses.
The state is a popular destination for foreign direct investments (FDI). Some 18,000 international companies have invested in NRW. Leading multinational companies such as 3M, BP, Ford, LG Electronics, Sany, Toyota and Vodafone have established branches in the region.
Four of Germany's 10 biggest cities-Cologne, Dusseldorf, Dortmund and Essen - are within NRW. Dusseldorf Airport and Cologne Bonn Airport are two major airports in NRW. Dusseldorf Airport is the third largest passenger airport in Germany, providing connections to more than 200 destinations worldwide. Cologne Bonn Airport is Germany's third largest air cargo center with an air cargo volume of 757,700 tons in 2015.
The state is also known for its convenient rail and expressway networks. NRW offers a 6,000-kilometer rail network, the densest in Germany.
A highly qualified workforce can provide strong support to businesses in NRW. Business growth is nurtured by the large number of universities where over 716,500 students, including 81,900 from abroad, are learning for a successful future career.
NRW has grown into a gathering place for global scientists and high-tech developers from around the world. Thousands of scientists and developers conduct research at the more than 100 research institutes and technology centers affiliated with the universities. There are more than 60 technology and business incubation centers to promote innovative start ups, spin-offs and the settlement of high-tech companies.
They supply young firms with professional infrastructure facilities and established networks that provide information and proximity to the market.
(China Daily 10/28/2016 page12)
