Thinking of launching an import-export business in Europe’s largest economy?
Thats a great idea. Germany isn’t just a central player in the European Union—it’s a global logistics and trade powerhouse.
Whether you’re dealing in consumer electronics, automotive parts, pharmaceuticals, or FMCG, setting up your import-export business in Germany puts you at the crossroads of efficiency, market access, and high purchasing power.
But here’s the real question: Which city should you choose for your import-export business expansion in Germany?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best German cities to set up an import-export business, each offering unique strengths in logistics infrastructure, proximity to ports, tax and warehousing benefits, and access to the EU market.
Let’s explore the best cities to make your German import-export dream a reality.
Why Germany Is Ideal for Import-Export Businesses?
Before we dive into specific cities, let’s cover why Germany stands out:
- Strategic EU Location: Borders 9 countries and sits at the heart of Europe.
- Excellent Infrastructure: Home to world-class seaports and railways.
- Strong Economy: 4th largest economy in the world with high global demand.
- Trade-Friendly Policies: Low barriers to entry, efficient customs procedures.
- EU Membership: Access to 450+ million consumers via the EU single market.
And here’s a plus: Foreign entrepreneurs can relocate to Germany with the EU Blue Card, a residence permit for highly skilled professionals, often used by business founders and specialists.
Now let’s get into the cities.
What are the best German cities to set up an import-export business?
Listed below are some of the top cities to open a profitable import-export business in Germany:
1. Hamburg
Hamburg is not just a beautiful Hanseatic city—it’s Germany’s largest seaport and the third-largest in Europe. If your business deals in maritime imports, global shipments, or container logistics, Hamburg is your launchpad.
Key Advantages:
- Port of Hamburg: Handles 130 million+ tons of cargo annually.
- Global Trade Hub: Strong connections to Asia, North America, and the Nordics.
- Logistics Ecosystem: 12,000+ logistics companies and freight forwarders.
- Access to Scandinavia: Direct ferry and road links to Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.
Best For:
- Bulk imports and exports
- Maritime trade
- Asian & Nordic market linkages
2. Frankfurt am Main
Frankfurt is Germany’s financial capital, and home to the Frankfurt Airport, one of the busiest cargo hubs in Europe. It’s a prime choice for air cargo-focused businesses or high-value goods like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and luxury items.
Key Advantages:
- Frankfurt Airport Cargo Center: Over 2 million tons of cargo yearly.
- Multinational Business Network: Headquarters of major global firms.
- Financial Services Access: Easy access to trade finance, FX, and banking.
- Fast Rail Connectivity: Reach any German city within hours.
Best For:
- High-value or time-sensitive goods
- Businesses needing strong financial services
- Entrepreneurs relocating with family (international schools, English services)
3. Düsseldorf
Located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany’s most populous state, Düsseldorf is a B2B hub and ideal for import-export businesses focused on Western Europe.
Key Advantages:
- Proximity to Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, and France
- Rhein Cargo Port & Barge Access: Inland shipping options to Rotterdam
- Strong Industrial Base: Chemicals, machinery, fashion
- Affordable Warehousing: Compared to Frankfurt or Hamburg
Best For:
- Cross-border trade with Benelux
- B2B industrial products
- Mid-sized trading businesses
Did You Know?
Düsseldorf is home to more than 600 Japanese companies—its global business culture is a bonus for foreign investors.
4. Stuttgart
Stuttgart is the birthplace of Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, making it ideal if your import-export business touches automotive, engineering, or precision equipment.
Key Advantages:
- Global Automotive Supply Chain Hub
- Skilled Workforce: Engineers, technicians, automation experts
- Efficient Rail and Road Access to Southern Germany, Austria, and Switzerland
- Trade Fairs and Industrial Exhibitions
Best For:
- Car parts, machinery, and robotics
- Swiss and Austrian market entry
- High-value B2B trade
5. Bremen
Often overlooked, Bremen offers a cost-effective alternative to Hamburg with similar port access and a strong maritime heritage.
Key Advantages:
- Bremen/Bremerhaven Ports: Together, handle over 75 million tons of cargo
- Smaller Business Ecosystem: Easier to network and establish partnerships
- Lower Setup Costs: Office space and logistics are more affordable
Best For:
- SMEs and startups with lean budgets
- Importers of food, agricultural, or consumer goods
- Businesses prioritizing value over size
6. Berlin
Berlin isn’t a traditional logistics hub, but it’s increasingly attractive to tech-enabled exporters, digital wholesalers, and startups leveraging e-commerce.
Key Advantages:
- Thriving Startup Ecosystem
- Access to Eastern European Markets
- Major Infrastructure Investments (BER Airport, road networks)
- Diverse, International Talent Pool
Best For:
- E-commerce and Amazon FBA sellers
- B2C product distributors
- Importers of design, tech, or lifestyle goods
EU Blue Card Germany: A Pathway for Business Professionals
If you’re a skilled foreign entrepreneur planning to run your import-export business while residing in Germany, the EU Blue Card can simplify your relocation.
Key Benefits of the EU Blue Card:
- Fast-track residence permit for skilled professionals
- Work and live legally in Germany and bring your family
- Pathway to permanent residency in 33 months (or 21 months with German proficiency)
- Applicable to business owners with strong academic or professional qualifications
- Setting up your business in cities like Frankfurt, Berlin, or Stuttgart strengthens your case for the Blue Card thanks to high economic activity and talent demand.
If you’re unsure about eligibility, our team at OnDemand International can evaluate your profile and assist with both business incorporation and Blue Card application.
How OnDemand International Can Help You Expand in Germany?
Setting up a business in a foreign country involves more than just paperwork. You need local insight, legal compliance, tax structuring, and often, immigration support.
That’s where OnDemand International comes in.
Here’s how we can help:
- Register your GmbH, UG, or branch office
- Assist with EORI, VAT, and customs registration
- Help secure warehousing or virtual office space
- Support EU Blue Card or Business Visa processes
- Introduce you to legal, tax, and trade experts in Germany
Whether you’re starting in Hamburg, Frankfurt, or Berlin—our Germany Desk will guide you every step of the way.
Conclusion
From seaports to air cargo hubs, Germany is the ultimate destination for setting up your import-export business in Europe. Each city—whether it’s Hamburg for maritime trade, Frankfurt for air freight, Düsseldorf for Western European access, or Berlin for digital commerce—offers distinct advantages for foreign entrepreneurs.
The country’s infrastructure, skilled workforce, stable economy, and EU market access make it a strategic launchpad for scaling globally.
If you are looking to start your import-export business in Germany, get in touch with us today.
FAQ’s
Yes! Foreign entrepreneurs can register a UG or GmbH and legally operate in Germany. You’ll need a local address and tax registration.
Cities like Bremen and Leipzig offer affordable warehousing, office space, and lower living costs than Hamburg or Frankfurt.
It’s helpful, but not mandatory—especially in international cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg.
Yes, if you have academic or professional qualifications and plan to actively work in your business, you may be eligible.
