Handwerk Chambers Demand Relief from Bureaucracy, Lower Taxes in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
On the eve of the pivotal Bundestag elections, the Handwerk chambers (guilds) in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern have issued a clarion call to the future federal government. In a joint statement, the two chamber presidents have implored the incoming administration to "release businesses from their shackles" and unshackle them from the chains of bureaucracy. The chambers propose a reduction in business taxes, while maintaining the debt brake.
Unleashing Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Axel Hochschild, president of the Handwerk chamber in Eastern Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, underscored the need for swift action from the new government, prioritizing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). "The craft industry of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern expects the new federal government to act decisively, with a focus on the economic middle class. We demand less bureaucracy, affordable energy, and a significant reduction in taxes and levies," he stated.
Uwe Lange, his counterpart in Schwerin, echoed Hochschild’s call for less state intervention. "The craft industry requires renewed freedom for entrepreneurship and innovation, as well as incentives for employment and securing skilled workers," he said. According to the chambers, the approximately 20,000 craft businesses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern employ a workforce of 112,000 individuals.
Dachverband: Bold Economic Policy Adjustments Needed
The Dachverband der Unternehmensverbände im Land (Umbrella Association of Business Associations in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern) also added its voice to the chorus of demands, issuing an election manifesto calling for a marked shift in economic policy. "Entrepreneurs expect the new government to have the courage to cut old habits and engage in honest dialogue on an equal footing. Only a strong economy will ensure innovation, jobs, and prosperity. We need to reinforce our location as a global competitor to sustain our social security systems," declared Lars Schwarz, president of the association.
Schwarz championed flexible working time models and targeted immigration of skilled workers. He emphasized the importance of investing in education and digitalization, while improving career guidance in schools. Schwarz also aligned with the Handwerk chambers in demanding the reduction of bureaucracy, taxes, and levies.
"We require policies that do not further debilitate Germany’s business position. Populist approaches from the political fringes – whether from the right or left – are unhelpful. Instead, we need practical solutions that promote stability and growth," he emphasized.
The umbrella association represents 60 employer, business, trade, and regional associations. Its 7,800 member companies employ a combined workforce of 340,000 people.
Call for a Balanced Approach
The Handwerk chamber’s and business association’s demands reflect a convergence of concerns among the private sector in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. They recognize the need for a balance between fostering economic growth and maintaining fiscal discipline. By reducing the regulatory burden, lowering taxes, and investing in human capital, they hope to create a more favorable environment for businesses to thrive and contribute to the overall prosperity of the region.
