Rheinland-Pfalz

Just hearing the name Rheinland-Pfalz (RP) makes you think of the majestic river running through this state and the legends it has produced. You might also think of Germany’s largest wine-growing region – hence the nickname “Wineland-Pfalz” – and the world’s largest sparkling wine producer. But wine, legend, and beauty aren’t all there is to RP.

The region has the good fortune to share borders with France, Luxembourg, and Belgium, with which it has close business connections. It also benefits greatly from its proximity to Frankfurt, its infrastructure, and its connections to the wider world. RP has earned its own economic reputation, too, as fourth in the top 10 European regions with the largest number of high-tech companies and as the state with the highest rate of exports – 46 percent – relative to production. Major industries include pharmaceuticals, vehicle manufacturing, and mechanical engineering. And, of course, you can’t forget that BASF, the world’s largest chemical company, is based here, as well.

Giants aren’t the norm, though, as small and medium-sized companies – such as Stabilus and Schottel – really drive RP’s dynamism and innovation. Much success is also owed to RP’s renowned universities, research institutes, and technical centers, and, of course, to the region’s 2,000-year tradition as a center of innovation and culture.