Nora Schmidt-Kesseler, the CEO of the industrial association Nordostchemie, has warned of an economic downturn should the AfD gain power in Eastern Germany following the upcoming elections. Speaking on the “Tagesspiegel” podcast, “Im Osten,” Schmidt-Kesseler stated that the AfD’s electoral program in Saxony-Anhalt describes a “remigration offensive.” She emphasized that the mere announcement of such a policy has negative consequences, regardless of whether it is implemented. She added that the discussion itself and the focus on migration issues cause anxiety and concern for many people.
Schmidt-Kesseler noted that their sector is a broad, international industry that relies heavily on foreign workers. The chemical industry, specifically, supports 60,000 jobs in Eastern Germany, especially within the chemical hub surrounding Leuna and Bitterfeld in Saxony-Anhalt.
On a broader political front, Schmidt-Kesseler called for lower electricity and gas prices. She lamented that the industry is experiencing its first wave of location closures, international relocations, and job cuts in decades. “Many well-paid, good jobs are currently being lost,” she criticized, stating that high energy costs are the primary driver of these issues.
Furthermore, according to the Ifo Institute’s report, “Competitive Report East Germany,” the current economic recovery in the East is being slowed down. The pace of catching up to the West is threatened by insufficient investment, a shortage of skilled workers, and an aging population. Currently, the chemical and automotive industries in Eastern Germany are the most anxious about their future.
