Danish Export Association celebrates 60 years

Originally founded as the Midt- og Vestjysk Eksportforening, the organisation soon expanded beyond its regional roots. By 1969, it had rebranded to Jysk Eksportforening and appointed its first director, Chresten Jørgensen. At the time, Danish exports were largely agricultural and fishery-based, primarily aimed at nearby European markets.

The oil crisis of the 1970s brought economic challenges, but also spurred the association’s growth. Rebranded as DEGA, it became a nationwide export platform. The association also launched its first overseas trade missions—including one to Alaska—marking a shift towards more global outreach.

The 1980s and 1990s brought major geopolitical shifts: the fall of the Berlin Wall, European integration, and the formation of the World Trade Organization (WTO), all of which opened new markets and harmonised trade standards. Industrial goods, food products, and pharmaceuticals became increasingly important. In 1981, the association made its first appearance at Marintec China—an event Denmark co-hosted in 2023.

The 2000s saw both the EU’s eastern enlargement and the global financial crisis. During this period, Ulrik Dahl succeeded Chresten Jørgensen as director. Under his leadership, the association established a Shanghai office and moved into larger premises in Silkeborg.

In the 2010s, Brexit reshaped trade with the UK, now Denmark’s fourth-largest export market. The Danish Export Academy was launched to strengthen members’ global competencies, while a strategic alliance with the wind sector led to the creation of what is now Danish Energy Export—a key driver in Denmark’s green transition and export strength.

The 2020s have already presented numerous challenges, from COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine to inflation and shifting global trade dynamics. Despite this, Danish exports to the United States now exceed DKK 290 billion annually, with pharmaceuticals playing a major role.

The decade also saw two leadership changes. Anette Galskjøt took over in 2022 before being appointed Consul General in Hamburg in 2025. Deputy Director Sebastian Schwarz is set to assume the role of Director in July 2025.

The opening of the new Danish Export Academy in December 2024, adjacent to the headquarters in Silkeborg, signals the association’s ongoing commitment to learning, collaboration, and boosting Danish exports well into the future.