In a nutshell, these are the demands whose implementation should enable the German foundry industry to continue to fulfil its social responsibility:

1. reduce energy costs

Despite lower procurement prices for electricity, costs in Germany remain considerably higher in international comparison. Competitive energy costs must be created for the transformation of the industry.

2. enable climate neutrality

The foundry industry supports the goal of climate neutrality with efficient processes and innovative products. Additional accompanying measures are necessary in order to implement the transformation in an economically viable manner.

3. reform the definition of SMEs

The current definition of SMEs from 2003 no longer fulfils today's requirements. In view of rising material costs, threshold values need to be adjusted in order to align funding programmes and legal frameworks with the reality of SMEs.

4. combating the shortage of skilled labour

Demographic change is exacerbating the shortage of skilled labour. Despite major efforts by the industry to integrate employees regardless of their origin or education, a systematic strategy is required to close the growing gap.

5. reduce bureaucracy

Bureaucratic burdens place a considerable burden on SMEs, tying up resources and hampering competitiveness. There is an urgent need to reduce administrative hurdles.

6. modernise environmental legislation

Extensive environmental legislation is increasingly hampering innovation. Authorisations and industrial adjustments must be made more flexible in order to accelerate the transformation and future-proof the industry.

7. Germany should set the pace in the EU

A strategically orientated industrial policy is essential for Europe's competitiveness. As the EU's largest economy, Germany should assume a leading role in order to strengthen industrial value chains.

8. securing the supply of raw materials

metals and high-quality scrap are indispensable for production. A secure supply of raw materials and a strong circular economy are crucial for the future viability of the industry.

The association is calling on companies in the sector to spread the demands through their own networks. BDG President Clemens Küpper appeals to the foundrymen's fighting spirit: ‘Use your regional appeal and spread the demands locally.

Your association will also support you in this over the coming months. We are not just SMEs, we are the economic powerhouses in Germany. We rely on our location, we rely on our country and our employees.’