Brandenburg Pledges Support for Strained Industries Amid Economic Downturn
Potsdam, Brandenburg – Recognizing the severity of the economic crisis, the state government of Brandenburg has extended a lifeline to struggling industrial enterprises. Economic Minister Daniel Keller (SPD) announced a series of measures to revitalize key sectors and bolster Brandenburg’s competitive edge.
Economic Stimulus package
Keller outlined a "100-Day Immediate Program" designed to restore the international competitiveness of energy-intensive firms operating in Germany. The program will encompass tax breaks, subsidies, and other incentives.
The minister also advocated for a "Pact for Growth and Industry" with the incoming federal government. This pact would prioritize measures to counter the risk of deindustrialization in Germany.
Challenges in the Steel Industry
Keller expressed concern over the dire situation at the Riva steel mill in Hennigsdorf. The plant, which produces reinforcing steel for construction, has been adversely affected by the sluggish building sector. Hundreds of employees have been on short-time work since the beginning of the year.
Keller assured that the government is monitoring the situation closely and will take steps to prevent large-scale job losses. The minister also acknowledged the broader challenges facing the German steel industry, including dumping prices from overseas and high energy costs.
Support for the Solar Industry
Keller plans to meet with representatives of the embattled Tschernitz solar glass manufacturer and its Indian parent company. The plant is set to implement short-time work in March due to declining orders.
The state government aims to safeguard the German solar industry from price dumping by Chinese competitors. Keller stressed the urgency of resuming discussions on a "resilience bonus" for the domestic solar glass industry.
Closures and Threatened Jobs
The Ardagh glass plant in Drebkau is facing closure due to lack of demand. The factory, which employs 163 workers, has already initiated short-time work. Keller indicated that the government has offered support to the company for investments that could preserve its operations, but Ardagh has declined the assistance.
The future of ZF Brandenburg, an automotive supplier in Brandenburg an der Havel, is also in jeopardy. Despite robust current order levels, Keller anticipates a sharp decline in production from 2026 onwards. This could result in "an order loss of 80 to 85 percent."
ZF’s parent company in Friedrichshafen has announced plans to eliminate up to 14,000 jobs in Germany in the coming years. The crisis is also affecting other major automotive suppliers.
Collaboration and Communication
Keller emphasized the importance of collaboration with industry leaders, trade associations, and chambers of commerce. He announced an industry conference in early March to facilitate discussions and exchange ideas.
The government will continue to monitor developments closely and provide targeted support to affected companies. Keller stressed the need for a collective effort to overcome the challenges and ensure the long-term competitiveness of Brandenburg’s industrial sector.
