The federal government has decided to extend the employment guarantee for the Schwedt refinery in Brandenburg for six months, keeping the guarantee in effect until the end of 2026.
During her visit to the refinery on Monday, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Katherina Reiche (CDU), stated that the extension provides crucial perspectives and stability. Reiche emphasized the goal of strengthening Schwedt in the long term, securing industrial added value, and creating new opportunities for the entire region. The core focus of the visit, according to the Ministry, was securing the energy supply, generating new investment impulses, and ensuring the future prospects for industrial development in the area. Reiche paid particular attention to the significance of Schwedt as an industrial hub and the necessity of guaranteeing energy supply in Northeast Germany.
In response, Brandenburg’s Minister-President, Dietmar Woidke (SPD), highlighted the refinery as a central pillar for supply security. He affirmed that permanent operation will be maintained through continuous cooperation between companies, employees, and all levels of government (federal, state, and local). The SPD politician pointed out that “the indispensable importance of this location is recognized by all involved parties”.
The Schwedt refinery has faced mounting pressures recently. Compounding these difficulties, no oil has been flowing through the Druschba pipeline from Kazakhstan since early May, a halt caused by Russia. Since the facility produces a large portion of the fuel required for the capital region and the entirety of Northeast Germany, stabilizing its operations remains a matter of critical importance.