Free and Open Markets Germany has a welcoming attitude towards foreign direct investment (FDI). The German market is open for investment in practically all industry sectors, and business activities are free from regulations restricting day-to-day business. German law makes no distinction between Germans and foreign nationals regarding investments or the establishment of compa- nies. The legal framework for FDI in Germany favors the principle of freedom of foreign trade and payment. There are no restrictions or barriers to capital transactions or currency transfers, real estate purchases, repatriation of profits, or access to foreign exchanges.