Proposal sought for a directive safeguarding workers from radiation-associated hazards, as mandated by the Commission.
In the face of waning demand, rising costs, uncertain sales markets, geopolitical crises, and potential EU regulations, the automotive industry is under immense pressure. This pressure has led to the loss of around 50,000 jobs in the past twelve months, a concern for the economic hub of Baden-Württemberg and Germany as a whole.
Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, the Minister for Economic Affairs, Labor, and Tourism, has called for decisive political action, particularly from the European Union (EU), due to the profound crisis in the automotive industry. She will be discussing the current crisis at the IAA Mobility 2025 event in Munich on September 10.
Hoffmeister-Kraut believes that the EU should make technology openness and location strengthening the center of its policy. She is particularly critical of Brussels' plans to introduce new regulatory requirements for the automotive industry, arguing that such policies could exacerbate the situation, putting tens of thousands more jobs at risk.
Instead, she advocates for the EU to support industries, rather than burden them, to encourage innovation. She emphasizes the need for affordable charging electricity for electric cars, competitive electricity prices for industry, stronger investment incentives, faster expansion of high-performance charging infrastructure, and swift removal of international trade barriers.
Hoffmeister-Kraut also emphasizes the importance of targeted support for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in qualification, digitalization, and new business models. She believes that strong international partnerships are crucial for the future of the industry and that Canada, as a highly innovative location, can be a valuable partner.
Victor Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Employment of the Canadian province of Ontario, will also have a key exchange with Hoffmeister-Kraut during the IAA Mobility 2025 event.
In addition to her discussions with industry leaders, Hoffmeister-Kraut will visit two plants in the automotive and machinery industry in the Neckar-Alb region on September 11, where she will engage in discussions with regional transformation networks.
The Minister President of Baden-Württemberg, Winfried Kretschmann, will also discuss the current crisis in the automotive sector together with Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut. Hoffmeister-Kraut emphasizes that business as usual would be fatal and that immediate action is needed to restore competitiveness.
For more information, please contact the Press Office or the Citizen's Representative of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor and Tourism, whose contact details are available online.
