Merz Pushes Faster Reforms to Revive German Economy

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is preparing to press his cabinet to accelerate economic reforms designed to reduce pressure on businesses, stimulate growth and protect jobs in Germany, according to a report by Bild am Sonntag on Sunday.

Merz is expected to make economic growth and employment the central focus of an upcoming cabinet retreat in Neuhardenberg, Brandenburg. The German chancellor said ministers must concentrate on measures that can strengthen the economy and improve conditions for companies.

"At stake in Germany are growth and employment. That is the most important issue," Merz told the newspaper. He urged his government to maintain its focus as it works to implement previously agreed policies.

The chancellor, who leads the conservative Christian Democratic Union, wants ministers to move quickly on reforms approved before Germany's summer recess. The measures span several major policy areas, including taxation, pensions, deregulation and digitalisation.

Merz described the government's earlier agreements as significant but stressed that their economic impact will depend on rapid implementation.

"We made historic decisions before the summer break," he said. "Now they must be implemented as quickly as possible."

Germany's government is placing particular emphasis on reducing regulatory and financial burdens facing businesses. Merz said the administration's priority is to provide "rapid and comprehensive relief for the economy," with tradespeople and small and medium-sized enterprises among the main intended beneficiaries.

The push highlights Merz's effort to make economic reform a central priority for his government. Faster digitalisation and deregulation, alongside changes to taxes and pensions, are intended to create a more business-friendly environment and support stronger economic activity.

The cabinet retreat will therefore serve as an opportunity for Merz to push ministers toward faster execution of the government's reform agenda. With growth and employment at the forefront, the chancellor is seeking tangible progress on measures aimed at strengthening German businesses and improving the country's broader economic outlook.