12.06.2026 - "The current insolvency figures must be more than a warning shot for the Federal Government. They are a clear mandate to finally tackle and swiftly implement the necessary reforms to relieve businesses. The economic situation is deteriorating, and more and more companies are reaching their limits. In March, a record number of companies had to close their doors—the highest in twelve years. Dramatically increased energy prices and rising labor costs are straining the liquidity of many businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises.

Looking ahead provides little hope for swift relief. The current DIHK economic survey of more than 23,000 companies indicates a sharp decline in expectations: A third of businesses anticipate worse performance, while only about one in seven expect improvement. At the same time, investment and employment plans continue to plummet. We are thus caught in a double crisis of economic weakness and structural location issues. After years of crises and stagnation, many companies have few reserves left to absorb additional burdens.

Businesses urgently need impactful reforms, and without delay. The key factors are lower energy and labor costs, determined reduction of bureaucracy, and considerably faster planning and approval procedures. At the same time, companies require more reliability and planning security—both domestically and in international business. Only then can trust in investment and growth be restored."