Economic and Financial Policy

Framework conditions for a strong location

Reliable political framework conditions are essential for a strong economy. The DIHK demonstrates where reforms in economic and financial policy are necessary: from competitive taxes and reduced bureaucracy to better investment conditions and stable public finances. Based on insights from business practice, the DIHK provides impulses for decisions that ensure growth, innovation, and employment.

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Geld- und Kreditausschuss
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Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

Money and Credit Committee

The DIHK Money and Credit Committee brings together expertise from banks, businesses, and academia, addressing key topics like banking supervision, corporate finance, and sustainable finance.

Symbolbild zum Thema Steuern und Finanzen
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Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

Finance and Taxation Committee

The DIHK Finance and Taxation Committee monitors important developments in taxation and financial policy across Germany and Europe—from competitiveness and Euro stability to reducing bureaucracy.

Interview Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

"Tax rates are a factor of location"

In May 2023, the members of the DIHK Finance and Tax Committee elected Ralf Herbener as their chairman. In our interview, the newly elected chairman provides insight into his views on the German tax system.

Steuerschätzung Oktober 2025
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Im Fokus Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

Tax Revenue Stagnates – Germany Needs Business-Friendly Reforms

Despite slight increases in sales and payroll taxes, the tax revenue fails to create room for new financial opportunities for politics and municipalities. A lack of growth and structural reforms could lead to significant financial gaps—hindering investments and future prospects for businesses.

Balkendiagramme schweben über einem Laptop
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Im Fokus Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

More Growth Through Increased Investments

Since 2023, the investment intentions of companies in Germany have been negative overall—a clear warning sign. This trend not only reflects a lack of confidence in the location but also highlights an urgent need for more resources, particularly for transformation or infrastructure tasks.

Porträit Karin Overlack
© Peter Hübbe
Interview Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

"Wir werden immer gebraucht"

Im Mai 2025 wurde Karin Overlack zur Vorsitzenden des DIHK-Ausschusses für Gesundheitswirtschaft gewählt. In unserem Interview erzählt sie, warum Deutschlands führende Rolle in der Gesundheitswirtschaft in Gefahr ist – und wie wir gegensteuern können.

Mann steht im Foyer
© Marko Priske
Interview Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

"We entrepreneurs must always stay vigilant"

Bernd Behrens was re-elected as chairman of the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) Trade Committee in April 2021. We asked him about his practical experiences as an entrepreneur - especially regarding the transformation process of trade, which he believes is continuing to advance.

Nancy Plaßmann
© DIHK / Jens Schicke
Interview Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

"There is too little investment in Germany"

Nancy Plaßmann is Chairwoman of the Berliner Sparkasse. Since May 2023, she has been the voluntary Chair of the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) Money and Credit Committee, which she has been a member of for six years. In the interview, she talks about the concerns of her...

Bild Industrie Bach
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Im Fokus Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

State Aid: Moderation in the Subsidy Race

Given the subsidy practices and favourable energy prices in other global regions, the EU Commission aims to expand the framework for national subsidies to advance decarbonisation and competitiveness in foundational industries. The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) advocates for a...

Team umgeben von Pflanzen
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Im Fokus Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

Relieving Companies from Reporting Obligations

As promised, the European Commission is working on streamlining various regulations for sustainability reporting. While many affected parties would prefer a bold removal of reporting obligations, this offers a glimmer of hope. Rules must now be revised or reduced promptly, and ceilings lowered.

Im Fokus Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

Investment Booster: Now it is up to Companies

While the promised electricity tax reduction for the broader economy is likely to be shelved, on July 11 the Bundesrat is expected to enact faster depreciation allowances and medium-term lower tax rates. However, for the intended "Investment Booster" to truly succeed, accelerated planning and...

Porträtfoto Gabriele Fink
© BMW AG
Interview Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

"Credibility is our highest asset"

Gabriele Fink has been the re-elected chairperson of the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) Committee for Communication, Media, and Creative Industries since March 2023. In our interview, she shares why shitstorms are inevitable and how to maintain credibility even on a regional level.

Wegscheide Richtungswechsel Pfeile
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Im Fokus Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

New Government, New Opportunity

In economic policy in particular, the new federal government faces great challenges that must be tackled immediately. The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) has summarised what is needed to quickly send a strong signal to companies in a 100-day programme. It lists the most important...

Wehende EU-Flaggen
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Im Fokus Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

Aligning the EU Competitiveness Fund Practically

About €234 billion is set to be invested by the EU between 2028 and 2035 to prepare its enterprises for the future. DIHK outlines considerations for shaping this mega fund effectively.

Europa auf Globus mit Stecknadeln
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Positionierung Wirtschafts- und Finanzpolitik

Safeguarding Europe's Competitiveness

Reducing bureaucracy, lowering energy costs, increasing the resilience of supply chains, leveraging the opportunities of digitalisation, and more: in mid-2023, the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) formulated ten guidelines for a strong EU economic location.

Date of publication 26.06.2023