Alarm letter: Metal employers call for more reform momentum from Merz
From Southern Germany comes the loud demand for a reduction in labor costs and more flexibility in working hours. But there are also different views in the industry.
Economic associations and representatives of prominent German companies have urged Chancellor Friedrich Merz to implement swift social reforms. In a letter, they cited high energy costs, international competition, and a changing economic environment as significant burdens on many businesses. The signatories, including companies like Siemens AG, Audi, BMW, and Porsche, are calling for a reduction in social contributions from 42% to around 40% of labor costs and for structural reforms in social insurance to curb expenditure growth.
They also advocate for maintaining a block solution for partial retirement and greater flexibility in working hours.
Written by urgent.news from Handelsblatt's report — not a translation of it. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
