28.01.2026 - "Germany is growing but way too slowly. Given our challenges, the economy's mini growth in 2026 is a sobering signal and far from what our location could achieve. This becomes alarmingly apparent even from an international comparison: Since 2019, the year before the Corona pandemic, the global economy has grown by 19 percent, the USA by 15 percent and even Italy by six percent. In contrast, Germany records a mini growth of 0.2 percent, practically no growth at all for seven years. We feel it in our own country through the migration of businesses and the reduction of jobs. And globally, we are experiencing a loss of external economic significance. We need to turn this now and undertake an enormous effort in 2026 and the following years. I am convinced: We can achieve this!"

The decisions of all political levels must be consistently oriented toward economic growth. Specifically, this means that acceleration plans for infrastructure should not be stalled again by the nitpicking of state responsibilities. Also, the promised reforms to reduce our no longer competitive energy and labor costs must come without ifs and buts. Ideally, the government should add at least one level of ambition everywhere. This also applies to overdue relief from bureaucracy and taxes."

These tasks at the German location must also be completed now to better react to geopolitical developments. Germany and Europe are still very dependent on third countries. Our companies notice this daily, with raw materials, semiconductors, and IT services. While geopolitical tensions and the threat of economic coercion shake the foundations of our foreign trade, the EU sends contradictory signals: The further delay in the EU-Mercosur agreement is a setback for Europe's ability to act and credibility with trading partners. However, there is hope that key points for a new free trade agreement have been successfully established with India."

The EU must further push for the conclusion of new EU trade agreements and reposition itself as a reliable trading partner globally. In addition to India, we urgently need progress with Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates."