The German Federal Minister of Agriculture, Alois Rainer (CSU), has pledged to accelerate efforts to reduce bureaucratic burdens within his ministry. In an interview with the “Rheinische Post” Rainer stated the aim is to move beyond paperwork hindering the productivity of farmers. He emphasized that those tending livestock and cultivating fields require flexibility over excessive documentation.
According to the ministry, farmers have already seen a reduction of over €20 million in bureaucratic costs since May of this year. A spokesperson confirmed that additional initiatives are currently undergoing internal review. This effort stems from a directive issued by Federal Minister for Digital Affairs and Modernization, Karsten Wildberger (CDU), in August, requesting ministerial colleagues to propose anti-bureaucracy measures. Ministries were given until September 15th to submit their proposals.
The Federal Ministry for Digital Affairs and Modernization (BMDS) has expressed satisfaction with the responses received. A spokesperson for the BMDS told the “Rheinische Post” that ministries have reported a series of proposed relief measures currently under development. The BMDS is now evaluating these submissions, asserting the German government is united in its commitment to implement significant relief measures. However, detailed information about the ongoing internal discussions remains unavailable.
Wolfgang Steiger, Secretary General of the CDU’s Economic Council, has criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the process. Steiger advocates for the public release of the submitted proposals, arguing it would be valuable to assess each ministry’s level of commitment and ambition. He urged against complacency and incremental improvements, calling for a substantial and impactful overhaul benefiting both the federal government and its constituent states.