Document background
The Confidentiality Letter (Vertraulichkeitsschreiben) is commonly used in German business contexts when parties need to establish confidentiality obligations in a more approachable format than a full NDA. It's particularly suitable for initial business discussions, preliminary negotiations, or situations requiring quick implementation of confidentiality protections. The document complies with German legal requirements, including the German Trade Secrets Act (GeschGehG) and Civil Code (BGB), while maintaining a less formal tone than traditional agreements. It typically precedes more detailed business arrangements and can be used to protect sensitive information during due diligence, business negotiations, or potential partnerships. The letter format makes it especially appropriate for time-sensitive situations or when building initial business relationships where a full confidentiality agreement might be perceived as too formal or cumbersome.
