Social market economy success in the Federal Republic of Germany is due to free competition, enterprise in the business community, and employees' social security. Craft industries play a major role in Germany's market economy. The craft industry is second only to the manufacturing industry, comprising 23 percent of German firms. There are seven craft trades: building and fitting-out; metalworking; woodworking; garment, textile, and leather; food processing; health and body care professions and chemical and cleaning; and glass, paper, ceramic, and others. The craft industry is organized into guilds, each represented by a district trades council; regional associations; federal guild associations; chambers of handicrafts; the German Trades Council; and the Central German Trades Association. A dual-track system permits apprentices to receive practical training from employers and attend a technical college for theoretical and administrative knowledge. Other major areas of operation are services and repairs. Since Germany's reunification, the craft industry has focused on five areas: (1) individual business consultancy and information services; (2) technological adaptation and research/development activities; (3) federal retraining courses and other educational and social measures; (4) industry promotion; and (5) using public funds for new ventures. Craft firms need information about the changing framework of economic conditions. (Four tables and four addresses for further information are included.) (NLA)