German Industry Faces Job Cuts as Energy Costs Threaten Competitiveness

SPD leaders call for immediate action, including capping electricity grid fees, to counter rising layoffs in the metal and electronics sectors.

Recent surveys reveal that 31% of metal and electronics companies in North Rhine-Westphalia plan to cut jobs in the next six months, reflecting deepening economic concerns.
40% of companies in the sector expect declining business performance, with only 5% anticipating improvement in the near future.
SPD leaders, including Lars Klingbeil and Achim Post, are urging swift measures such as reducing electricity grid fees to alleviate energy costs and protect jobs.
The SPD has proposed long-term strategies like the 'Made in Germany' premium and infrastructure investments to boost industrial competitiveness.
Industry representatives warn of a prolonged crisis, citing a 45,800 job loss in 2024 and forecasting further declines in production and employment for 2025.