Agency Report –
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will hold talks on Thursday in Berlin with representatives of the car industry, including manufacturers, suppliers, trade unions and state officials.
Germany’s famous automotive sector is grappling with declining sales, competition from China, the transition to e-mobility, and EU regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
Additionally, higher tariffs on US imports are adding to the challenges. Many companies are reporting sharp drops in profits, implementing cost-cutting measures, and reducing jobs.
According to the German government, the two-hour meeting will focus on finding joint solutions to position the car industry successfully for future technologies. The aim is to secure jobs while meeting climate targets.
Merz, Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil, the president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) Hildegard Müller and IG Metall union chairwoman Christiane Benner will provide updates following the meeting.
