Craft policy

Photo: © Karsten Hintzmann

Crafts policy | May 2026

First exchange with Minister Klement: Focus on skilled trades

First meeting, clear signals: During the exchange with Brandenburg's new Minister of Economic Affairs, Martina Klement, the skilled trades brought key concerns such as reducing bureaucracy, securing skilled workers and business succession to the table – and apparently met with open ears.

Photo: © Michelle Loiselle/123RF.com

Crafts policy | May 2026

Healthcare trades are pushing for a reform of prequalification.

Healthcare professionals support Thuringia's motion in the Federal Council calling for a review of the prequalification process in statutory health insurance. They argue the existing system is overregulated and inefficient.

Photo: © Holzbau Deutschland/Rolando Laube

Crafts policy | May 2026

Peter Aicher remains chairman of Holzbau Deutschland

At the board election of the German Timber Construction Association, Peter Aicher was confirmed in his position. His deputies are Volker Baumgarten, Rolf Rombach, and Gerd Renz.

Photo: © joaquincorbalan/123RF.com

Crafts policy | May 2026

Lower sales in the electrical trades

Last year, companies in the electrical trades generated less revenue compared to the previous year, and the number of employees subject to social security contributions also decreased.

Photo: © kasto/123RF.com

Crafts policy | May 2026

Pressure on the painting and varnishing trade is increasing

The economic situation in the German painting and decorating trade remains strained. In addition to high cost increases, declining orders from private customers are dampening the industry's revenue expectations.

Photo: © alphaspirit/123RF.com

Crafts policy | May 2026

Law for faster procurement passes the Federal Council

The Federal Council has approved the law for the accelerated awarding of public contracts. The German Construction Industry Association (ZDB) says this is an important signal for the entire construction sector.

Crafts policy | May 2026

Self-employed, pregnant, financially secure

In Berlin, representatives from politics, trade and society discussed ways to improve maternity protection for self-employed women.

Crafts policy | May 2026

Relief bonus rejected by the Federal Council

The Federal Council has rejected the tax relief bonus criticized by the skilled trades sector. It will not be implemented for the time being. The plan was to allow companies to pay their employees a tax-free bonus of up to €1.000.

Crafts policy | May 2026

Tax estimate: Revenue forecast revised downwards

The working group on tax revenue forecasts significantly lower tax revenues for the federal government, states, and municipalities over the next five years. The skilled trades sector warns that this must not lead to additional burdens.

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Main entrance of the Chamber of Skilled Crafts closed

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One in three tradespeople already uses AI daily.

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This way, trainers know where their trainees stand.

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Crafts under pressure: Weak demand and difficult financing

New Circular Economy Act: Trades see room for improvement

The skilled trades sector demands practical implementation of the substitute building materials regulation.

Teacher shortage in Brandenburg: Schools face the threat of cancelled classes

Caravan Salon 2026: Experience the future of caravanning

The Unimog is celebrating its birthday

Privileges now also for electric commercial vehicles

Brusk: Where Bruges combines medieval times and AI

A new world in the zoo of superlatives

Royal Clipper: Sailing through the Mediterranean under 42 sails

With professional textile finishing, you're on the safe side.

Corporate award from "Vocational Training Without Borders"

Mandatory electronic cash registers are expected to come into effect from 2028.

Exclusive car discounts and more for entrepreneurs in the skilled trades.

First exchange with Minister Klement: Focus on skilled trades

Healthcare trades are pushing for a reform of prequalification.

Peter Aicher remains chairman of Holzbau Deutschland

Lower sales in the electrical trades

Pressure on the painting and varnishing trade is increasing

Law for faster procurement passes the Federal Council

Self-employed, pregnant, financially secure

Relief bonus rejected by the Federal Council

Tax estimate: Revenue forecast revised downwards