The German Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Katherina Reiche (CDU), has voiced opposition to a proposed digital tax targeting US technology giants such as Google and Amazon, a measure recently advocated by Minister of State for Culture and the Media, Wolfram Weimer.
Reiche emphasized a focus on reducing trade barriers rather than imposing new ones. She stated in an interview with the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” that efforts should concentrate on improving the competitive landscape for German and European digital enterprises to ensure their ability to thrive in international markets. Her suggestion centred on fostering a climate of “less regulation, more room for innovation and growth.
Beyond the digital tax debate, Reiche also cautioned against a protracted dispute regarding customs duties between the European Union and the United States. She highlighted the significant daily financial burden the tariffs place on the German economy, estimating losses in the millions. Reiche stressed the necessity for predictability for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic. She warned that uncertainty poisons investments and reliable supply chains, advocating for a swift resolution to the customs dispute between Europe and the US, while assuring continued efforts towards achieving such an agreement.