The guest of our column today is the PwC | Legal | Senior Manager | Lawyer | CEE - Russian Business Group TANJA GALANDER.
Omsky Biocluster: Hello, Ms. GALANDER!
TANJA GALANDER: Hello!
September 30 - October 1, Zerbst / Anhalt, the birthplace of Catherine the Great, became the venue for the 2nd German-Russian Economic Dialogue, in which Omsky Biocluster also took part. You were the moderator of the Agricultural and Food Industry panel discussion. What are your expectations of the outcome of the German-Russian dialogue in Saxony-Anhalt?
Despite the difficult political and economic relations, I expect an active dialogue between entrepreneurs, which will ultimately have a positive impact on the overall relationship between Germany and Russia. I would also like to see joint business projects. It would be great to develop a tradition to meet each year at the Catherine Forum.
How German business is ready for investment in Russia? What conditions do German investors need?
German business is ready for investment if there are specific opportunities and needs. Inquiries of Russian clients are important. We see the possibility of development not only in the Russian Federation, but also within the framework of the Eurasian Union and towards Asia. Traditionally, German business cooperates well with Russian business, despite the recent years, the attitude is very good. As for required conditions and framework, I would like to note the stability of the investment and legal framework conditions and the belief that the policy will not interfere with economic relations, the courts are independent and there is a possibility to execute probable claims against a Russian side. German enterprises respect the possibility of state support, although restrictions on participation in government procurement reg. 'Made in Russia' products are not entirely convenient.
The quality of German products is recognized throughout the world. The problem of its promotion to Russia is the value, which is determined by the ‘weak’ ruble. How do you compete with Russian and Chinese equipment?
Of course, the advantage of German products is quality. Experience shows that Russian customers are willing to pay more for a product of high quality. Of course, competitors do not sleep, especially Chinese producers. Nevertheless, one of the advantageous differences is the provision of extensive services and maintenance in relation to the products by German manufacturers.
The ideology of business pre determines its development. What are the main differences in the ideology of German and Russian business?
The foundation of German business is medium and family companies. Their approach to doing business is more long-term and strategic, it is important for them to receive regular income for 10 - 20 years. In turn, Russian companies are more focused on generating income in the first 3 - 5 years.
Ms. GALANDER, have you ever been to Siberia? What do you know about Omsk?
Yes, I was in Siberia several times, went to Novosibirsk, Kemerovo, Barnaul. Unfortunately, I haven’t visited Omsk yet.
OMSKY BIOCLUSTER feeds people. Are you familiar with Russian cuisine?
Of course, I know and love Russian cuisine.
Your wishes to OMSKY BIOCLUSTER.
I would appreciate specific opportunities for cooperation. If there are offers by a German entrepreneur and opportunities for German business, as well as joint projects between Russian and German companies, then our cooperation will be mutually beneficial and productive.
Thank you!
Omsky Biocluster Press Secretary Ravshana Balloyeva.
