Germany’s investment location Nr. 1
28,7 % of all foreign investments are concentrated in NRW (EUR 187,7 billion). More than 11,700 foreign companies from the most important investor countries control their German or European operations from NRW (3M, BP, Ericsson, Ford, LG Electronics, QVC, Sany, Toyota, Vodafone).

One of the largest European markets
17,1 percent of German exports are "Made in NRW". As an independent exporting nation, NRW would occupy 18th place in the world almost level with Spain and Taiwan. 21,9 percent of all German imports go to NRW. 18 of the 50 largest German trading companies are based here (Metro, Rewe, Aldi).

Gateway to Europe
More than 450 international direct flights depart from two major international airports and four airports with European connections. All of Europe's major cities can be reached in a maximum of 3 hours by air. A tight road, rail and waterway network ensures good connections all over the world. Handling around 80 million tons of goods per year, Duisburg is the world's largest inland port.

World-class research and development
Nearly 50 technology centers and 54 non-university research facilities form the densest research network in Europe and provide ideal conditions for technology transfer.

Highly qualified workforce
NRW has 68 universities and technical colleges and more than 500,000 students. 6 of the 12 largest universities in Germany are located here. 59,400 foreigners study at institutes of higher education in North Rhine-Westphalia.

The world’s biggest trade fair location
With Cologne, Düsseldorf, Essen and Dortmund, NRW is the world's number one trade fair location. More than 60 internationally leading trade fairs such as anuga, photokina, MEDICA, drupa or boot attract approx. 6 million visitors every year.

Competitive tax system
Germany is no longer a high tax nation. The overall tax burden of joint-stock companies is 29.8 per cent and thus, compared to other countries, on an average level.

First place in security issues
North Rhine-Westphalia - as a traditionally international focused location - is the safest German state.Eleven of the 20 large cities with the lowest crime rate are to be found here.

Excellent properties and real estate
NRW has many excellent commercial premises close to economic centers at internationally competitive prices.

One of Europe's richest cultural landscapes
Renowned theaters and museums, 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sports events and cultural festivals in NRW are known internationally. Two of the nine 3-star-restaurants in Germany are to be found in NRW. The Eifel national park is just one of many popular leisure destinations.