"Government reaches 100-day mark; BGA advocates for fall initiatives"
In the face of rising global trade tensions and protectionism, Dr. Dirk Jandura, President of the Federal Association of Wholesale, Foreign Trade, and Services (BGA), has called for strategic reforms to prepare Germany and Europe for the future.
Jandura emphasized the need for diversification of trade partnerships to reduce dependency on specific markets, particularly in light of heightened US tariffs that threaten German exports. He also highlighted the importance of pursuing long-overdue reforms to improve Germany’s and Europe’s competitiveness and economic resilience.
Jandura warned against passive acceptance of external pressures, such as the imposed tariffs by the US, and instead advocated for proactive measures to strengthen Germany’s economic position. He described the current tariff situation and trade tensions as an "existential threat" and a "wake-up call" for Europe, implying that failure to act strategically will lead to serious damages domestically, higher costs, and weakened competitiveness.
While specific legislative or policy reforms were not detailed, the focus is on strategic economic adjustments including trade diversification and structural reforms to enhance competitiveness. Jandura also indirectly suggested that reforms to improve infrastructure and logistics efficiency might be part of his broader agenda to reduce costs and support trade.
The Chancellor has identified Germany's problems, and Jandura expects real cuts on the expenditure side in Germany. He also wants Germany to become a modern, efficient, digital country where everyone wants to live and work.
The new federal government took office on August 14, and Jandura expects the Chancellor and his ministers to present a clear vision for Germany in 2035 by the end of this year. He calls for courage to tell the truth and implement reforms, and for decisions on working hours and retirement to be made, despite discomfort.
The global situation remains challenging, and domestically, the federal government's actions are compared to stepping on the gas and the brakes at the same time. However, the federal government has immediately begun addressing urgent needs, and the Chancellor is acting prudently and decisively in response to American trade policies.
Despite the challenges, Germany has the potential to become a modern, efficient, digital country, according to Jandura. Tax rates in Germany will not reach internationally competitive levels until 2028, but tangible de-bureaucratization and simplifications are slow to materialize.
In summary, Dr. Jandura advocates for enhanced strategic planning, trade diversification, improved infrastructure, and timely reforms by the German federal government to address domestic challenges, reduce costs, and strengthen competitiveness in the global market.
Other policy-and-legislation changes might be necessary to support Jandura's call for infrastructure and logistics reforms, crucial for reducing costs and trade efficiency. Additionally, general-news outlets should closely monitor politics surrounding this issue, as strategic economic adjustments may require parliamentary approval.
