Financing solutions for 
India

Mr. Mane, you have been in Mumbai for a few weeks now. What are your first impressions?

India is the fastest growing major economy in the world. With a population of over 1.4 billion people and steady economic growth, it is an increasingly attractive destination for German exporters. Key sectors such as infrastructure, mechanical engineering, renewable energies, chemicals and transportation are particularly strong. Germany and India already have close economic ties - and there is great interest in German technology. Against this backdrop, as a local financing expert, I see great potential to support German exporters in various sectors with competitive financing solutions (for their Indian buyers) backed by the Federal Republic of Germany. Being on the ground creates real added value: face-to-face meetings with Indian buyers, financing banks and exporters, as well as seminars and conferences to raise awareness of these products, answer questions on export credit guarantees and - more importantly - build direct relationships with all stakeholders involved.

How do Indian companies and banks react when you bring up the subject of German export credit guarantees?

The reactions are very positive. Many are already aware of the quality of German products, but not all are aware of the financing advantages that are possible through state-backed guarantees - especially small and medium-sized enterprises. This is precisely where we see great potential. Our instruments enable longer repayment periods and lower financing costs, which makes German exporters more competitive. Banks particularly appreciate the risk mitigation and structuring options that buyer credit cover offers - which in turn enables them to provide financing on competitive terms.

How do you assess India's current economic development?

India has become the fourth largest economy in the world by 2025 and is also one of the fastest growing markets. The growth story is based on the huge domestic market, rising per capita income and favorable demographic conditions. India is investing heavily in numerous sectors such as infrastructure, transportation, energy, pharmaceuticals and general industrial production - which opens up enormous opportunities for suppliers of German technology. These investments are not only aimed at supporting consumption-driven domestic growth, but also at developing internationally competitive products for export from India. This makes India's economic prospects very promising.

Have you already identified specific leads for further talks?

Yes - and quite a few. There is a strong interest in financing solutions backed by German export credit agencies. I have already had several discussions with banks and large importers who would like to work with German suppliers on upcoming projects. India offers very fertile ground for growth, especially for medium-sized exporters.

What does it mean for you personally to work in India?

It is a great feeling to be part of the export finance community here. I am grateful for this unique opportunity where we can not only support the competitiveness of German exporters in such a dynamic market, but also contribute to India's economic growth. My goal is to increase the visibility and utilization of export credit guarantees and build long-term, trusting relationships with local partners in India.

Please complete the sentence: After one year as a financing expert in India, you would like to be able to say that you...

...have successfully accompanied numerous export transactions locally, raised awareness of German export credit guarantees in India and established yourself as a reliable contact for German exporters, Indian buyers and local banks.