Defense Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) has rejected calls for increasing the inheritance tax. Speaking to “Focus”, the CDU politician stated that such an increase would harm the country, particularly impacting family-run businesses, which she calls the most stable pillar of the German economy. She asserted that questioning the assets of high achievers is misguided, adding that the government should await the Federal Constitutional Court’s ruling and only change regulations where constitutionally required. According to the federal minister, upholding justice also means protecting those who assume responsibility and are liable with their private wealth, a group that includes family entrepreneurs. Reiche believes that the reform package proposed by the governing coalition must fulfill the “promise of advancement”. The Christian Democrat emphasized the need for a common goal and an overarching narrative, stating her desire for Germany to regain its competitiveness and growth by 2030 through affordable energy, stable social systems, an attractive tax structure, and a digital state. She concluded that entrepreneurship needs to become enjoyable again, and if this perspective is communicated convincingly, people will be willing to accept temporary burdens.
Minister Reiche Rejects Inheritance Tax Hike Cites Damage to Economy
