Central German companies wait for a turnaround

The mood among companies in Central Germany has only improved slightly compared to the previous year. There is no sign of an economic turnaround compared to spring 2024, said the President of the Halle Chamber of Skilled Crafts, Thomas Keindorf. At 32.4 points, the economic climate index for trade and industry was only just above the previous year's figure of 31 points. It is therefore a far cry from its previous high of 89 points in spring 2018. With the joint economic survey, the Chambers of Skilled Crafts and the Chambers of Industry and Commerce in Leipzig and Halle reflect the business situation of companies in the region. The chambers represent more than 147,000 companies.

Turnover and earnings have fallen in many companies, said Kristian Kirpal, President of the Leipzig Chamber of Industry and Commerce. The growing cost pressure is exacerbating the situation and putting additional pressure on the mood. "The investment climate remains poor. In addition to a lack of growth prospects, high location and labor costs as well as bureaucratic hurdles are significantly dampening companies' willingness to invest." The Central German Chambers of Commerce are therefore calling for several immediate measures. These include a sustainable reduction in energy costs, a reduction in bureaucracy and better incentives for the unemployed.