Saxony’s Minister-President, Michael Kretschmer of the CDU, sharply criticized Volkswagen amid the uncertainty surrounding its Zwickau plant. According to Kretschmer, Volkswagen has become an unwieldy conglomerate and must return to being an internationally competitive company.
The state government leader specifically demanded that the company must prioritize production costs when making decisions regarding the allocation of models and contracts within the group. Kretschmer argued that “economic logic must be the standard in the future.” He stated that it was unacceptable if a vehicle could be manufactured more cheaply in another German facility, yet production was instead carried out at a more expensive location-citing the case of the ID.4, which was moved from Zwickau to the pricier site in Emden, Lower Saxony, as an example.
Regarding the Zwickau plant specifically, Kretschmer opposed any plans for its conversion into a factory for defense production. “We want cars to continue being built there,” he insisted.
Looking at the national economy, Kretschmer noted that Volkswagen serves as a symbol of Germany’s current economic situation. He claimed that Germany is engaged in an “economic war” with the United States and China, and that the country is being economically disadvantaged on the international stage. Despite these pressures, the CDU politician criticized the lack of response across the nation, calling for a “Pact for Germany.” He affirmed that Saxony is ready to forge a cross-party alliance with employers and trade unions. “Everyone must contribute something and receive a measure of additional security in return,” Kretschmer said.
In this context, Kretschmer reiterated his call for a return to a 40-hour work week. He stated that, during this period of economic conflict, it is necessary “to dare the attack.” He maintained that over the coming years, more must be worked for the same income, tied to the perspective of securing existing jobs.
