The ongoing semiconductor shortage is triggering a sharp rebuke of German Economics Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) from the Green Party, who are demanding urgent and proactive intervention to safeguard German industries and jobs. Andreas Audretsch, deputy parliamentary group leader for the Greens, accused Reiche of inaction, warning that the situation demands immediate and decisive leadership.
The potential for Bosch, a major German industrial and technological firm, to implement short-time work measures, a significant indicator of strained production capacity, has fueled the criticism. Audretsch directly challenged Reiche to fulfill her duties, arguing that the crisis necessitates an immediate initiative focused on securing semiconductor supplies.
“Katherina Reiche cannot abandon German businesses during this critical juncture” Audretsch emphasized in an interview with “Der Spiegel”. He warned that failure to maintain production would jeopardize thousands of jobs and exacerbate anxieties amongst families across the country.
The Green Party representative drew a stark comparison to the energy crisis precipitated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He lauded the rapid and effective response to the cut-off of Russian gas, which saw Germany swiftly reorganize its energy supply chains and maintain production across vital sectors. “We managed to restructure over 50 percent of our gas supply in record time” he stated, implying that similar agility is required to address the semiconductor shortfall.
While Reiche’s ministry has acknowledged the challenges, critics question the speed and scope of the government’s response. Concerns persist about Germany’s over-reliance on foreign semiconductor suppliers and the need to rapidly expand domestic chip production capabilities. The Green Party’s call for action highlights a growing political pressure on Reiche to demonstrate governmental effectiveness in mitigating the economic fallout of this escalating crisis and echoes anxieties over Germany’s long-term industrial resilience.