Concerns are mounting across German business and political circles regarding proposed EU plans for a new corporate tax. Representatives from various sectors, including the Mittelstand (small and medium-sized enterprises), are voicing strong reservations about the potential impact on economic competitiveness and stability.
Gitta Connemann, chair of the Mittelstands- und Wirtschaftsunion (MIT), characterized the proposal as “precisely the opposite of right and wise” emphasizing the need for the European Commission to prioritize maintaining a competitive environment. She cautioned against placing additional financial burdens on businesses, particularly in the context of ongoing trade disputes.
Sebastian Roloff, the SPD’s economic policy spokesman, echoed these concerns, arguing that imposing additional taxes on the Mittelstand during the current economic climate is not a constructive approach. Instead, he advocated for a more focused discussion on a potential pan-European digital tax targeting large technology corporations.
Sepp Müller, deputy chairman of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, expressed “very critical” views, stating the proposed tax is counter to efforts to stimulate both national and European economic recovery.
The DIHK (German Chamber of Industry and Commerce) has labelled the plans as sending “the completely wrong signal”. Helena Melnikow, the DIHK’s chief executive, noted the Commission’s recent pledge to reduce regulatory burdens and warned that the introduction of a new tax would undermine this commitment. She urged the German government to unequivocally oppose the proposal within the European Union.