Saxon Economy Proposes Measures for Bureaucracy Reduction - Saxony’s business groups demand urgent cuts to red tape for growth
Business groups in Saxony are advocating for significant reductions in bureaucracy to assist small business ideas in remaining competitive. A recent study identified 27 specific obstacles, ranging from duplicate paperwork to outdated digital processes. Employers contend that excessive red tape is hindering growth and efficiency in the region.
The call for change follows a study by Imreg that exposed long-standing issues in Saxony’s administrative system. My business and others face inconsistent forms across different municipalities, with some processes still requiring postal mail and handwritten signatures despite partial digitisation. Another significant problem is the lack of data sharing between authorities, forcing businesses to submit the same documents repeatedly.
Two key associations—meta Sachsenmetall and VSW—are spearheading the push for reform. Sachsenmetall represents firms in the metal and electrical industries, while VSW covers construction, trade, and services. Their demands include abolishing outdated regulations when new ones are introduced and accelerating administrative digitisation. The groups also want simplified reporting rules, fewer regulations overall, and faster visa procedures for foreign skilled workers. These changes, they argue, are crucial to keep Saxony appealing for international talent and investment. Michael Kretschmer, head of Sachsenmetall, has publicly endorsed the reforms in media reports by dpa.
The proposed reforms aim to simplify bureaucracy by eliminating duplicate paperwork and modernising digital systems. If implemented, they could reduce delays in visa processing and enhance data sharing between authorities. Business leaders believe these steps are necessary to maintain Saxony’s economic competitiveness in the long term.
