Computer- und Videospiele: Games-Firmen bekommen vorerst keine Steuererleichterungen

Köln - Despite announcements in the coalition agreement, German game industry firms are still waiting for tax relief. Bundesliga Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) stated during a visit to the world's largest computer game fair, Gamescom, that talks were being held on the matter, but were difficult due to the budget situation.

Vice Chancellor stated that he still supported the idea, as he was aware that it was included in the coalition agreement. Klingbeil did not specify how much he expected to achieve from the appearance. CDU/CSU and SPD had declared their intention in the coalition agreement to promote the Game location Germany through tax incentives by 2025.

However, this has not yet happened. Felix Falk, CEO of the Game industry association, urged progress on the subject at Gamescom. In other countries such as France, Ireland, Australia, Canada and the UK, such tax incentives have been in place for a long time, Germany should also "move to the next level", said Falk. "We need to open up to modern concepts that have already been successfully implemented in many countries around the world."

With such a promotion, game companies could deduct costs tax-wise and thus pay less tax. The state would then initially receive less money into its coffers. In the long term, it is hoped that the tax revenue will increase as the industry grows and creates more jobs. The federal states would have to agree to the tax relief for game firms.

The promotion could be carried out through "tax credits". NRW Minister-President Hendrik Wüst (CDU) also signaled his willingness to agree to the federal government's plan, as he had done the previous year. "We're in when you want to implement your coalition agreement, I'm sure we'll find a fair solution." Gaming is a billion-dollar business that is gaining more importance in the digital age: visual possibilities are becoming better and more and more people are reaching for smartphones and consoles or settling at the desktop PC to play.

However, Germany only plays a minor role: around five percent of the money spent on games goes to games made in Germany. To increase this share, the federal government has increased its funding for the game industry - from around 88 million euros in 2025, it is 125 million euros this year. But only about 40 million euros have been approved or applied for so far.

Does the industry really need this funding? Yes, said industry representative Falk - it is normal that it takes time for the industry to absorb the funding. Unpleasant whispers from the industry that the funding pool could be reduced next year due to low participation contradicted Finance Minister Klingbeil: "We will continue to maintain this high funding level in the coming years."

CSU Minister for Research and Innovation Dorothee Bär (CSU) confirmed the stance of the federal government: "We are not cutting, not even next year." That seems unavoidable in times of tight budgets but is important and right for strengthening the German game industry, said the Christian Socialist.