Economic Olympus: Glimmer of hope for companies on the Lower Rhine!

Economic Olympus: Glimmer of hope for companies on the Lower Rhine!

The current economic climate in Germany is being shaped by a planned investment offensive by the federal government. This initiative aims to send a positive signal for the economy. As the Rundschau Duisburg reported that companies in the region are reacting positively to this initiative. A survey by the Lower Rhine IHK makes it clear that many companies have become more optimistic, especially the message from IHK President Werner Schaurte-Küppers, who praises the perception of politics.

The IHK emphasizes that companies are feeling a “tailwind” from the federal government’s new economic policy. Nevertheless, it is emphasized that noticeable short-term effects are necessary to sustainably promote growth. Important open points, such as reducing bureaucracy and abolishing the solidarity surcharge, remain present. Dr. Stefan Dietzfelbinger, General Manager of the Lower Rhine Chamber of Industry and Commerce, announces the high pressure on politicians to act.

Urgency of reforms

In a broader context, Adrian, the President of the Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (DIHK), calls for a realignment of the federal government's economic policy agenda for 2025. He calls for alignment according to the “economy first” principle and emphasizes the need for a credible economic policy course in order to improve the conditions for investment and growth. Loud DIHK Immediate measures are urgently needed, including a massive reduction in bureaucracy and the reduction of energy policy burdens.

According to the DIHK's recommendations, infrastructure relief and a corporate tax reform are also necessary to create incentives for new investments - the first such reform in 16 years. Adrian emphasizes that major growth impulses must come primarily from economic and financial policy. A supportive interest rate policy from the European Central Bank (ECB) is seen as crucial to facilitating investment and providing stability.

Economic challenges

The economic situation in Germany shows signs of a deep structural crisis. Investments in 2024 were around six percentage points below the pre-Corona level, with an increasingly downward trend. The DIHK points out that Germany is expected to experience the third year of no real growth in gross domestic product in 2025, further shaking business confidence.

However, Adrian also sees opportunities for economic dynamism and prosperity, provided the right decisions are made and a change in economic policy is initiated. These developments are not only important for large companies, but also affect the approximately 70,000 member companies of the Lower Rhine IHK from industry, trade and services.