The programme includes major activities such as forums on trade, investment and tourism, meetings between businesses, exhibitions to introduce Vietnamese export products, and a Gala dinner to introduce traditional cuisine. In addition, Vietnam’s people and land, as well as the investment environment will be introduced through dissemination activities during the programme.

According to Pham Gia Tuc, general secretary of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), total trade value between Vietnam and Germany last year reached about US$1.79 billion, a year-on-year increase of 25 percent. Of the total value, Vietnam exported US$1.01 billion worth of goods to Germany. Major exports included garments, footwear and handicrafts. Bilateral trade value in 2005 is expected to increase by 18-20 percent against 2004.

Regarding investment, by August 2005, more than 60 German-invested projects were operating in Vietnam, with a total registered capital of nearly US$260 million, ranking it 22 out of 71 foreign investors in the country. The amount is considered "modest" compared to the potential for co-operation between the two countries.