Germany is facing a rising wave of corporate insolvencies. January figures show 1,919 filings, with the first quarter of 2026 totaling 4,573, the highest in more than two decades. The sectors most affected are hospitality, construction, and transport and logistics. Experts warn the downturn may continue as energy prices stay high, while opponents blame the federal government led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz for inadequate, unfocused relief measures. Critics argue that the temporary fuel discount and the so-called entlastungsprämie mainly benefit oil companies and do not reach many workers, self-employed, or freelancers. The AfD calls for a fundamental shift in economic policy: a reliable and affordable energy supply through a return to nuclear power and continued operation of efficient coal plants, along with an immediate reactivation of the Nord Stream pipelines and a substantial, permanent reduction of energy and fuel taxes to address the insolvency wave and secure Germany’s economic position.
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