Chamber of Commerce President Johannes Ullrich comments on the stimulus package to combat corona effects, which the government coalition decided in Berlin yesterday:
“The economic stimulus package decided yesterday by the coalition committee is an all-round package that links acutely necessary, targeted measures to strengthen the economy with important future impulses.
Securing the liquidity of our companies must continue to be of the highest priority. The announced bridging aids, with a volume of 25 billion euros, will also make it easier for the handicraft companies. Our companies also benefit from direct relief, such as capping social security contributions at 40 percent or reducing the EEG surcharge.
In the decision, other important demands of the craft were taken up and implemented: The Freiburg Chamber of Crafts demanded at an early stage that planned private and public investments must continue to be able to be implemented. Consumer incentives such as the temporary reduction in VAT or the significantly higher purchase premiums for electric vehicles ensure that our craft businesses receive more orders – this not only benefits companies, but also their employees and their families. The aid packages for the municipalities are an important factor for public administration that is capable of long-term work and investment.
The financial support of companies that maintain or expand their training efforts during this difficult period should also be highlighted positively. Securing young talent through training is and remains the number 1 strategy in the craft sector for securing the future of our industry. The economic stimulus package also covers important future investments – from the digitalization of the administration to the promotion of applications of artificial intelligence and 5G expansion to sustainable climate protection. The numerous measures envisaged show that the coalition wants to tackle Germany’s future security in a sustainable manner.
The government is doing some things right with the stimulus package, but much is still unclear and not very detailed. Politicians have to make the decisions more concrete and implement them as quickly as possible. “
(Press release: Freiburg Chamber of Crafts, June 4, 2020)
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