Following the economic forecasts from research institutes this autumn, Federal Economic Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) has called for a consistent continuation of the reform course agreed upon by the coalition. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” (Friday edition), Reiche stated: “The good news is that we are getting out of the stagnation phase. The economy is growing, order backlogs are increasing, and the mood in companies is improving.”
However, the minister noted that this growth is primarily driven by two factors: “Exports are picking up, particularly in Europe, and the two major special funds for infrastructure and defense are beginning to have an effect. Now, the challenge is to transform these impulses into sustainable, self-supporting economic expansion.”
Reiche then stressed the need for greater private spending, observing that Germany has invested less than the OECD average since the mid-1990s. “We urgently need more private investment. Therefore, along with governmental investments in infrastructure, defense, and climate protection, we must push forward the necessary reforms concerning social security systems, the labor market, and energy prices,” Reiche emphasized.
Looking ahead, the minister expressed confidence in Germany’s resilience, noting that the country has repeatedly proven its ability to emerge stronger from crises. “My vision for 2030 is a Germany that becomes Europe’s growth locomotive again,” she declared. She wants a renewed spirit of optimism in Germany that encourages both investment and risk-taking. Concluding her remarks to the “Rheinische Post”, Reiche humorously remarked: “Or, to put it in the context of the new national football coach: we need more Klopp and less Nagelsmann.”
