# German economic policy and growth outlook

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/german-economic-policy-and-growth-outlook
> Updated: 2026-09-17T17:10:29.000Z. Sources: 17. Developments: 2.

At the BGA-Unternehmertag 2026 in Berlin, Chancellor Friedrich Merz addressed the competitiveness of medium-sized enterprises and the necessity of economic resilience. Merz advocated for international cooperation, rule-based free trade, and new trade agreements with regions such as MERCOSUR, Mexico, India, and Australia. He also proposed reforms to reduce bureaucracy, accelerate approval processes, and provide tax relief, while noting potential relief measures for rising fuel prices.

During a campaign event for the Berlin House of Representatives election, Merz defended his reform plans and military strengthening. He reiterated that Germany has emerged from its economic crisis, projecting a 1.3 percent growth rate for 2026. He also emphasized the necessity of immigration to support the labor market and expressed support for Berlin CDU candidate Stefan Evers, who is campaigning on issues of stability, housing, and combating antisemitism.

Amidst these political developments, CDU Deputy Chairwoman Karin Prien called for party unity and solidarity behind Merz. She urged members to end internal debates, noting that the party currently faces feelings of “exhaustion and powerlessness.”

## Claims

- Germany has emerged from its economic crisis. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Germany is projected to have 1.3 percent economic growth in 2026. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Germany is an immigration country that requires labor market immigration. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Social security system reforms are being implemented for younger generations. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Merz endorsed Stefan Evers as the CDU candidate for the Berlin House of Representatives election. (corroborated by 3 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-17: Friedrich Merz defends reforms at Berlin CDU campaign event

Chancellor Friedrich Merz defended his economic and defense reforms during a Berlin CDU campaign event, while party leaders called for unity ahead of upcoming elections.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/friedrich-merz-declares-germany-has-exited-economic-crisis

### 2026-09-16: Germany economic summit focuses on resilience and trade

At the BGA-Unternehmertag 2026, Chancellor Friedrich Merz advocated for international partnerships, trade agreements, and economic reforms to bolster Germany's resilience and competitiveness.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/germany-economic-summit-focuses-on-resilience-and-trade

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Cite as: German economic policy and growth outlook. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/german-economic-policy-and-growth-outlook