EK Ambassador Awards 2025: Recognition for Kai Sauer and Team Finland Indonesia

Entrepreneurs of the Confederation of Finnish Industries EK have recognized diplomats from the Team Finland network who have shown exceptional commitment to advancing Finnish exports. The 2025 Ambassador Awards are given to Finland’s Ambassador to Germany, Kai Sauer, and the Team Finland Indonesia, led by Ambassador Pekka Kaihilahti.

Promoting internationalization and exports is crucial for achieving a much-needed economic turnaround in Finland. On behalf of the entire Finnish business community, we wish to extend our warmest thanks to Finland’s Ambassadors and Team Finland professionals, say Anne Kangas (Hoitokoti Päiväkumpu), Chair of the EK Delegation of Entrepreneurship, and Bengt Westerholm (Beweship), Chair of the EK SME Internationalization and Reform Working Group:

“Growth must be pursued beyond Finland’s borders – on export markets. That is why the success of the Team Finland reform is now a top priority. Focus needs to shift to the actual services provided for companies and to their quality.”

“EK’s fresh data shows that a number of companies aiming for exports has doubled. This gives additional momentum to the Team Finland reform.”

EK will fully support the implementation of the Team Finland reform. As a practical measure, we have launched the Pro Ukraine program, which will help to establish a new model for export promotion in close cooperation with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and other Team Finland stakeholders. In addition, we are preparing a digital business training academy to help SMEs scale internationally.

Ambassador Award Recipients 2025

Finland’s Ambassador to Germany, Kai Sauer

Finland’s Ambassador to Germany, Kai Sauer has demonstrated exemplary initiative and a broad range of expertise in export trade, internationalization, and current geoeconomic issues. The Finnish business community particularly values his early-stage engagement and foresight, which have supported companies in preparing for export opportunities, such as Germany’s infrastructure and defense investments. Sauer has always been willing to assist, offering sharp analysis and up-to-date insights.

Team Finland Indonesia

According to feedback from the company field, Team Finland Indonesia has delivered excellent cross-organizational cooperation. The team, led by Finland’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Pekka Kaihilahti, has shown genuine Team Finland spirit and built active dialogue with the business community. Their smooth teamwork has generated notable results, which companies greatly appreciate in a growth market such as Indonesia. This sets an outstanding example and advances the Team Finland reform.

Translation in Finnish.