German industrial insolvency and job losses

Industrial entities in Germany are facing insolvency and liquidation following unsuccessful attempts to secure new investors.

R-Pharm Germany, a subsidiary of a Russian pharmaceutical group, is undergoing liquidation after failing to find buyers with secured financing. The company filed for insolvency in March 2026, citing EU sanctions related to the war in Ukraine and Russian countermeasures as drivers for the closure. This process is expected to result in the loss of approximately 280 jobs.

Similarly, the Leuna Polyamid chemical plant in Saxony-Anhalt is facing a shutdown and approximately 400 job losses. The company, established in April 2026 as a rescue entity to acquire assets from the Belgian group Domo Chemicals, has failed to secure a new backer. Managing Director Martin Naundorf stated that no binding offers were received despite efforts to find an investor.

The plant cited economic pressures including high natural gas and raw material prices, weak demand, and competition from China. Production is planned to cease by the end of September 2026, followed by a technical shutdown lasting 15 to 20 days. Formal insolvency proceedings are anticipated to begin in early October 2026. The closure has raised concerns regarding the supply of ammonia and other materials to companies within the Leuna chemical park.