In his invitation to the discussion on Wednesday evening, the Chancellor made it clear that the aim was to put the economy back on a competitive growth track, according to the President of the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) in the radio interview. This is undoubtedly "the concern of everyone taking part in today's discussion."

Key burdens: energy, labour costs, bureaucracy

His message was clear, said Adrian: DIHK surveys have shown that unbearable energy costs represent the biggest burden for businesses in Germany, followed by labour costs and bureaucracy. Although there are many approaches, Adrian noted: "The fact is we have 1,800 laws, almost 3,000 regulations, with an additional 100 each year." The situation for businesses is "truly intolerable." 

The meeting at the Chancellery is meaningful, Adrian emphasised. Although the partners enter the discussion with very different expectations, visions and demands, they are united in the realisation "that the situation is truly difficult" and a clear willingness to contribute their part to improving the circumstances.

Creating perspectives and trust

Businesses in Germany are willing to tighten their belts if there is a perspective. "And that is our primary problem." The economy needs optimism for the future and dependable frameworks. The lack of trust is clearly shown in investment behaviour: Equipment investments by the industry are far below the levels of 2019, even of 2015—a clear indicator, Adrian explained, that the SME-dominated economy currently sees no good economic investment opportunities. "This must be broken."

Not the last meeting

The DIHK President is confident that the discussion on 10 June will not be the last. Intensive exchanges in the coming weeks and months are necessary. "Last year, we hoped for an 'autumn of reforms'. It's now almost autumn 2026—there is urgent need for action."

On the SPD proposal for mandatory company pensions, Adrian commented that Germany already has a mandatory system with statutory pension insurance. According to the Council of Economic Experts, this urgently needs reform, Adrian said. This reform need cannot be relieved simply by introducing another mandatory system and continuing with the old, inadequate one. 

The question of how to additionally improve employee pensions is indeed a topic within companies, Adrian clarified. Corresponding to the wide range of industries, there are diverse solutions in this regard. 

You can listen to the full interview on the Deutschlandfunk website.