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Finance Minister Lindner: fundamentally correct signals

Photo: IMAGO/Wolfgang Maria Weber

Business associations are calling for improvements to a package of measures planned by Finance Minister Christian Lindner (FDP) for more economic growth in Germany. In a statement on the draft of a so-called Growth Opportunities Act, it says that a number of promising measures are being announced to improve the tax framework of the location. "That's the right thing to do and it's long overdue." At the same time, it says: "However, we also see a need for readjustment."

DIHK President Peter Adrian said that the planned relief volume of 6.5 billion per year was an important first step. "But even if fully implemented, the measures are not sufficient to adequately solve the current and structural problems of the German economy."

Less than promised

The German economy has been struggling with a sluggish economy for months, and business associations are therefore calling for relief. Lindner proposes nearly 50 tax policy measures. The core element is a premium for investments in climate protection.

The draft has not yet been voted on in the government. The statement comes from eight associations, including the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DIHK), the Federation of German Industries, the Confederation of German Employers' Associations and the German Confederation of Skilled Crafts.

Adrian said that Lindner was basically sending the right signals. This applies in particular to the planned premium for investments in climate protection measures. "Unfortunately, it is less than the promised super depreciation, which should also include investments in digital assets. If implemented in an uncomplicated manner, it would at least be a suitable instrument to stimulate investment by companies in energy efficiency."

In addition, however, an increase in the supply of electricity from renewable energies is urgently needed. »Electricity in Germany as a business location must become cheaper.« The state should also refrain from electricity taxes and incorporate levies and fees into the federal budget as completely as possible. Adrian continues: "At the moment, the German economy needs nothing more than relief – fewer regulations and not more and more."

mik/dpa-AFX