Riccardo Benussi Shares Asia Trade and Startup Insights in Munich at German Accelerator’s Networking Night

On May 13, 2025, Riccardo Benussi, Partner at Dezan Shira & Associates, joined fellow startup and innovation experts at the Munich Startup Networking Night, hosted by German Accelerator and Start2 Group. The event welcomed alumni, founders, and industry leaders for an evening of exchange, insight, and connection — anchored by a fireside chat exploring Asia’s evolving role in the global startup ecosystem and the implications of global trade realignment.

Held in the heart of Munich’s startup community, the evening brought together decision-makers, innovators, and German Accelerator program alumni to share practical experience in scaling internationally, with a special focus on emerging opportunities in Asia. The fireside chat was moderated by Linda Nguyen Schindler, Director of Ecosystem, Client & Partnerships at Start2 Group (Singapore), and featured expert contributions from Claus J. Karthe (Start2 Group), Samantha Mark (IP Pilot), Till Ammelburg (Start2 Group), and Riccardo Benussi.

Speaking on trade policy, cross-border expansion, and sector-specific trends, Mr. Benussi provided a deep dive into how Asia is adapting to shifting global tariff regimes and supply chain realignment. He emphasized that startups seeking to expand in 2025 must look beyond traditional markets, and instead position themselves in agile, strategically located economies like Vietnam, India, and Indonesia.

Riccardo also addressed regulatory hurdles and incentive schemes that are shaping startup decisions today. “Founders entering Asia need to do more than just follow capital flows. They need to understand the regulatory frameworks, cultural nuances, and free trade agreements that define each market,” he noted, citing Vietnam’s EU and ASEAN partnerships as a powerful differentiator.

Other panelists shared firsthand experiences entering India and China, Riccardo contributing additional insights on how ASEAN’s rising middle class, digital infrastructure development, and demographic shifts are creating new B2B and B2C opportunities for international startups.

Looking ahead, Riccardo stressed the importance of adapting business models to local contexts. “What works in Berlin doesn’t necessarily work in Bangkok,” he said. “Success in Asia comes from localized value propositions, informed compliance, and choosing the right city or cluster to begin operations.”

The fireside chat and networking event concluded with enthusiastic engagement from attendees, who explored partnership opportunities and exchanged expansion experiences over Asian-inspired food and drinks. For many founders, the night offered both strategic guidance and a chance to reconnect with the wider global startup network.

German Accelerator, run by Start2 Group and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWK), helps startups scale internationally by guiding them through fast-paced programs in leading global innovation hubs. With tailored support, expert mentoring, and access to a vast network of partners and investors, they have empowered over 1,200 startups across industries and stages to grow globally. Dezan Shira & Associates is working closely with their team and is part of their mentorship program in Asia.

More information

• Dezan Shira & Associates DACH Desk C
• China-Germany Economic Relations 2025: What Merz’s Leadership Means for Trade and Investment
• Vietnam Enhances Incentives for National Innovation Center: Implications for Business and Startup Community