"Globalisation" implies the process of increasing international integration in all areas of life. Globalisation already occurred in former centuries. However, in contrast to earlier phases of globalisation the speed and extent of this development has increased substantially in recent years. Technical progress has drastically reduced transport and communication costs. This has had not only a stimulating effect on international trade, but has also led to a higher degree of internationalisation and division of labour in the production processes. Money, goods and knowledge are transferred worldwide like never before.
Germany is an open economy and has a strong international orientation; consequently, it shows a high degree of integration into the worldwide globalisation process. Exports have been the motor of the German economy for a long time. At the same time Germany is dependent on imports as it is a resource-poor country, especially in the energy sector.
The Federal Statistical Office provides information on the activities of foreign-controlled enterprises („inward FATS“). In contrast to this, the Deutsche Bundesbank offers statistics on foreign affiliates controlled by German investors („outward FATS“) and on foreign direct investments.