Germany and the entire European Union risk a progressive process of deindustrialisation, according to statements by Hartmut Jenner, CEO of the industrial group Kärcher. In his contribution published by the news outlet Euronews, the executive explained that the continent is facing a particularly critical economic scenario, caused by international geopolitical tensions, domestic regulatory hurdles, and a context of intense trade rivalry that penalises Western exporting companies.

Jenner highlighted how foreign trade dynamics make it very difficult to maintain a level playing field in the market. Specifically, he cited the unpredictability of tariff policies coming from the United States and the strong technological expansion of China, backed by massive state subsidies and targeted currency policies. According to the businessman, these circumstances cause trade distortions and excess production capacity, severely challenging leading European industries.

On the domestic front, the manager points out that the loss of tens of thousands of industrial jobs and the decline in production volumes represent a concrete phenomenon. Increases in energy, wage, and structural costs reduce the economic sustainability of new production plants. Jenner considers growth forecasts driven by public spending and debt to be insufficient, highlighting reform fatigue at the national level.

To overcome these challenges, the company head calls for a structured programme focused on a clear cut in bureaucratic burdens, flexible hours, and incentives for overtime. At the continental level, Jenner calls for a determined EU trade policy capable of penalising rule violations, thereby restoring fair conditions for investment and private innovation.