According to the German Steel and Metal Processing Association (WSM), industrial companies in Germany are under considerable economic pressure. Against the backdrop of an economic downturn, the association is calling for measures for 2026 that provide immediate relief rather than having an effect only in the medium or long term.
The WSM is expressly calling for decisions that can be implemented in the short term and have a direct impact on cost structures and competitiveness.
Suspension of the national CO₂ price for industry
The association cites the suspension of the national CO₂ price for the manufacturing industry as a key measure. This is based on the Fuel Emissions Trading Act and represents a special national approach. In the opinion of the WSM, this leads to competitive disadvantages without making a corresponding contribution to global climate protection.
For energy-intensive steel and metal processors, which are often dependent on natural gas, suspending the CO₂ price would lead to lower energy costs in the short term. From the association's point of view, only a uniform Europe-wide regulation would be effective in terms of climate policy, as it could limit the relocation of production abroad.
Solidarity surcharge as a short-term lever
In addition, the WSM advocates the abolition of the solidarity surcharge. This measure could be implemented quickly and would provide immediate tax relief for companies. The association sees this as a further approach to improving the industry's economic capacity to act in the short term.