German Industry Association: AfD Government Role Would Be 'Fatal'

The Federation of German Industries (BDI) has issued a stark warning regarding the upcoming state elections, cautioning that any government participation by the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party would be "fatal" for the nation's economy. Tanja Gönner, the BDI's Chief Executive Officer, stated that the AfD does not offer credible solutions to the country's pressing economic issues.

“

We would consider AfD government participation to be fatal.

Gönner elaborated that the AfD's proposed policies would likely hinder investment, create uncertainty, and weaken Germany's position as a business location, rather than fostering growth. The BDI's concerns are particularly heightened as state elections are scheduled for September in Saxony-Anhalt, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and Berlin. Notably, the AfD is currently leading in opinion polls in both Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and in the latter, the party harbors hopes of forming a government independently.

“

The AfD offers no convincing answer to the country's central economic challenges. Its course would make investment more difficult, create uncertainty, and weaken the location instead of promoting growth.

While Gönner acknowledged that the overarching legal framework for business conditions is primarily set by the European Union and the federal government, she emphasized the significant influence of state governments. "State governments shape the climate of a location locally," she asserted. This local climate is crucial, especially in light of the growing shortage of skilled labor. Gönner stressed that Germany cannot afford to alienate qualified professionals from abroad, highlighting the need for an open and welcoming environment to attract and retain talent.

“

However, state governments shape the climate of a location locally.