Critical Wage Negotiations Resume for Germany's Metal and Electrical Industry

Amid economic challenges, the second round of talks aims to secure a fair wage increase for over 130,000 employees.

The IG Metall union is demanding a 7% wage increase and an additional €170 monthly for apprentices, with a proposed contract duration of 12 months.
Negotiations involve over 130,000 workers across northern Germany, including regions like Bremen, Hamburg, and Schleswig-Holstein.
The employer's side is expected to present their initial offer, aiming to balance company constraints with union demands to avoid strikes.
Previous delays in wage negotiations have led to significant industrial actions, highlighting the urgency for a swift resolution this time.
The current economic crisis and ongoing deindustrialization add complexity to the negotiations, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic agreement.