Coalition negotiations: Associations: Without reforms it goes downhill with the country

With an urgent appeal, the Union and SPD economy has asked to take more attention to the interests of companies in their coalition negotiations. Germany is in a severe economic crisis, which is mainly homemade, according to an explanation of around 100 associations. “But the participants of the coalition negotiations are apparently unimpressed by these developments. Their previous intermediate results are inadequate and do not take into account the accumulating situation in the companies and operations. What has been available so far ignores the growing economic challenges in many areas,” criticize the associations.

The declaration is signed by the employers’ association BDA, the BDI Industrial Association, the Handwerkverband ZDH, the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) as well as numerous associations of banks, trade, metal and electrical industry as well as other industries. The explanation is also sent to the main negotiation group of the Union and the SPD.

“Significantly more ambition” required

“In the coalition negotiations, it should not be about whoever prevails symbolically. Rather, it depends on setting the course for more growth and employment for our country,” warns the economy. They demand “significantly more ambition” in four areas.

From the association’s point of view, the tax burden on companies must be noticeably reduced. With around 30 percent, Germany occupies a top position internationally. An internationally competitive level of a maximum of 25 percent is required.

Warning of further downturn

Reforms are also required for social security systems. Increasing contribution rates weakened the competitiveness of the companies and led to less net of gross with the employees. The future government also has to give the highest priority to reduce bureaucracy loads, warn the associations. Finally, they expect measures to reduce the high energy costs.

“It has to be worthwhile to keep a company in this country,” the explanation continues. The business associations warn: “If the future federal government does not enable this quickly and consistently, the economic downturn will no longer be able to endure in the coming years.”