Denmark has experienced solid economic growth in recent years. Production and exports have expanded steadily. Danish industry, agriculture and a fast-growing service sector offer a wide range of quality products. Denmark is good at innovations, but also at refining existing goods and services. Traditionally, Denmark is a trading nation. Exports amount to approximately one-third of GNP. The OECD expects Danish exports to increase by 7.1% by volume in 1995 and by 5.5% in 1996. The government is prepared to take an active part in supporting a continuously positive increase in Danish exports. Denmark's dependence on international trade has made it a firm supporter of liberal trading practices. It has also helped our companies to become and remain competitive. Many of them are highly specialised and are known for high technical standards and punctual deliveries.

The Royal Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (The Secretariat for Foreign Trade) together with the Danish Embassies and Danish Consulates General, assist Danish companies in gaining access to markets worldwide. The Embassies/Consulates General are in this way responsible for the finding of foreign partners that complement the service of the Danish companies in the individual markets. The Royal Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Copenhagen co-ordinates export promotion planning activities in co-operation with the Danish trade organisations and other ministries. The Secretariat for Foreign Trade provides a wide range of services and information, both in regard to investments and joint ventures as well as projects financed by international organisations. The efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs targeted at trade and business form an essential and integrated part of the activities of the Foreign Service. Thus, export promotion represents the single activity of the Foreign Service to which most resources are allocated. If you need further information or assistance in establishing contacts with Danish exporters, you are most welcome to contact the nearest Danish Embassy or Consulate General.

Mr. Niels Helveg Petersen