Merz: Germany loses 10,000 to 15,000 industrial jobs monthly

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that Germany is losing between 10,000 and 15,000 industrial jobs each month. He stressed the need for structural reforms to ensure companies remain competitive and preserve the nation's future prosperity.

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Germany became strong because it was an industrial country. Now industry is changing, but I want us to remain a country of productive industry in 10, 20 years.

Speaking during a public dialogue event, Merz declared that the German economy faces "substantial risk." He committed to not passively accept this situation, emphasizing Germany's historical strength as an industrial nation. "Germany became strong because it was an industrial country. Now industry is changing, but I want us to remain a country of productive industry in 10, 20 years," he stated.

Merz acknowledged that key sectors like the automotive and machinery manufacturing industries are facing "great challenges." He argued that support is necessary to safeguard employment. The chancellor pointed to uncompetitive energy prices as a significant factor, lamenting the decision to abandon nuclear power. "I think it was a mistake. We disconnected safe electricity generation capacities from the grid without necessity," he said, noting that renewable sources like solar and wind cannot yet cover demand due to a lack of storage capacity.

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I think it was a mistake. We disconnected safe electricity generation capacities from the grid without necessity.

To address these issues, Merz highlighted his government's plan to create additional electricity generation capacity through new gas power plants. He also defended the necessity of structural reforms, such as increasing labor market flexibility and raising the retirement age. Merz explained that these reforms are not undertaken lightly but are essential for maintaining the status quo. "We are not preparing these reforms because it is fun for us, but because they are necessary for many things to remain as they are," he concluded.

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We are not preparing these reforms because it is fun for us, but because they are necessary for many things to remain as they are.