Volkswagen to cut 100,000 jobs by 2030

Volkswagen plans to cut another 50,000 jobs by the end of the decade, bringing the total number of positions targeted in its restructuring to 100,000. The agreement was reached by company management and labor unions, according to the automaker.

Volkswagen described the workforce reduction as a necessary adjustment to changing economic conditions. The additional cuts build on an earlier agreement covering 50,000 jobs and would affect about 15% of the group’s global workforce.

The European auto industry’s largest manufacturer faces pressure from U.S. tariffs, uncertain demand for electric vehicles and fierce competition both at home and from Chinese automakers. Volkswagen also said the future of four plants in Germany, in Hanover, Emden, Zwickau and Neckarsulm, would not be assured as the 2030s begin.

A closure of those facilities would mark the first time in Volkswagen’s history that the company had halted operations at large-scale production plants in its home country. The difficulties extend beyond Volkswagen. BMW recently lowered its profit forecast for the year, citing disruptions related to the conflict in Iran and weaker business in China.

“

Systematically adjusting the size of the workforce to adapt to economic realities is very important.