State of Florida Department of Economic Opportunity
01/26/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/26/2026 11:38
ICYMI: Governor Ron DeSantis Joined by German Ambassador Jens Hanefeld to Formally Expand Florida’s Partnership with Germany
~ Governor DeSantis signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) that establishes a practical framework for cooperation across key sectors including innovative technologies, aerospace and aviation, manufacturing, life sciences and workforce training ~
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and German Ambassador to the United States, Jens Hanefeld signed a Joint Declaration of Intent between the state of Florida and the Federal Republic of Germany, promoting strategic investment, industrial ties and economic growth. This JDI establishes a practical framework for cooperation across key sectors including innovative technologies, aerospace and aviation, manufacturing, life sciences and workforce training. This JDI signing is a direct result of the June 2025 Florida Leadership Mission to Germany.
The signing of today's JDI strengthens the existing bond between the people of Florida and Germany. In November of 2025, the state of Florida and the state of Baden-Württemberg held a JDI signing, formalizing a year-long effort that brought together government, industry and academia.
"The Free State of Florida continues to set the standard for business growth and economic development on the international stage," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "Today's agreement will ensure that our state remains one of the best places to do business, live, work and raise a family. The steps we're taking today will strengthen the economic partnership between our great state and Germany."
"Cooperation between partners and technology leaders like Florida and Germany delivers tangible benefits-from new jobs to cutting-edge innovation," stated Ambassador Hanefeld. "By expanding collaboration in strategic technologies, aerospace, life sciences, and research, we are not only helping our businesses - we are strengthening our competitive edge as Team Freedom over those who don't want our model of democracy and free enterprise to succeed."
Florida continues to make its mark on the international stage as the 15th largest economy in the world if it was a standalone country. With an annual GDP approaching $1.8 trillion, Florida leads the nation in new business formations and ranks #1 for developing and recruiting a skilled workforce. Recognized by CNBC and U.S. News and World Report as the nation's top economy, Florida's pro-business vision continues to drive success at both the national and global level.
The Florida-Germany JDI establishes the commitment of both Florida and Germany to encourage and promote strategic partnerships, technical cooperation and investment in the following priority sectors:
- Innovative Technologies and related disciplines including Cybersecurity and Emerging Technologies
- Photonics and related technologies such as semiconductors
- Aerospace and Aviation
- Automotive
- Life sciences and medical technologies
- Workforce training and university collaborations.
As of 2024, the total merchandise trade between Florida and Germany amounted to $7.2 billion, a 12.1% increase from 2023 and ranking Germany as Florida's 7th largest merchandise trading partner. Florida merchandise exports to Germany were valued at $1.4 billion in 2024, a 27.6% increase from 2023.
To view the full Joint Declaration of Intent, click here.
State of Florida Department of Economic Opportunity published this content on January 26, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on January 26, 2026 at 17:38 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]