The skills shortage in Germany has narrowed considerably, decreasing by approximately 18 percent year-over-year in the second quarter of 2025, according to the latest Skills Shortage Report from the Competence Center for Skilled Workers (Kofa). The report, highlighted in Friday’s edition of the “Rheinische Post” indicates a reduction from the previous year, yet reveals persistent challenges in filling skilled positions.
Despite the decrease, as of June 2025, an estimated 391,000 skilled positions remained unfilled nationwide, reflecting a continued tight labor market. Kofa’s analysis indicates that over a third of open positions could not be filled.
Current labor market data shows 1.1 million open positions for skilled workers in June, a 7.5 percent drop compared to the same period last year. Simultaneously, the number of skilled unemployed individuals reached roughly 1.2 million, surpassing the number of open positions and marking a 9.9 percent increase year-over-year. However, Kofa noted that even with fewer open positions and a rise in unemployment, over 391,000 roles remained unfulfilled due to a lack of suitably qualified unemployed individuals.
Positions requiring completed vocational training proved most challenging to fill, accounting for 60.3 percent of the unfillable roles. Specialist positions requiring further education or a bachelor’s degree and expert positions requiring a diploma or master’s degree, represented significantly smaller proportions.
The report also highlights noteworthy declines in skills gaps within specific professions. A significant reduction in the shortage of bus and tram drivers was observed, with the gap shrinking by about 43 percent compared to the first quarter of 2025. Kofa attributes this decline to the difficult financial situation faced by many public transport operators, citing increased energy prices and the introduction of the Deutschlandticket, which has placed financial strain on operators and led to battles to maintain their services.