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Download this reportDoing Business in North Rhine-Westphalia
Inside this issue
• The demise of WestLB is a sign of changing times
• State builds capacity in field of electric vehicles
• Cologne’s facilities give it a starry career in television - -
Content
Ambitions clash with financial realities
The most populous German state and top energy producer pins hopes on clean energy and China, report James Wilson and Quentin Peel
Finance industry: Demise of WestLB is a sign of changing times
After a series of mistakes and bail-outs, the bank is to be broken up, says James Wilson
Automotive industry: Electric vehicles find ideal home on congested roads
Projects aim to make the region a national centre for research and production, writes Chris Bryant
Media: Cologne has a talent for television production
The governments of state and city have fostered skilled labour as well as broadcast infrastructure, notes Gerrit Wiesmann
Football: Success of local clubs puts region on the map
The sport arouses strong passions and attracts huge crowds. James Wilson reports
Relocation guide: Good quality of life on offer for expats
Emma Wilson offers advice on where to live, work, and play
Politics: Minority government confounds sceptics
The SDP-Green coalition has won statewide agreement on education policy, says Quentin Peel
August Oetker: A pudding maker with its finger in many other pies
James Wilson on a company with interests from baking to shipping
Duisburg: Inland port positions itself as gateway to Europe
Over the past 10 years, a bulk cargo harbour has been transformed into a container and logistics hub, says Chris Bryant
Strong case for high-tech suitcases
Chris Bryant meets the head of Rimowa, the luggage maker
