German industry alliance lays out domestic investment push
The amount included investments already planned as well as new spending, they said.
The pledge was intended as a "strong endorsement of Germany's potential" following recent investment outflows worth hundreds of billions of euros, the signatories said.
The initiative was being led by executives from Germany's blue-chip companies, including lender Deutsche Bank and industrial group Siemens.
The CEOs of the two German heavyweights were received in the chancellery in Berlin by Merz, who declared that "the message is very clear... it is worth investing in Germany again".
"The weak growth of recent years has shown us that we need better framework conditions for the economy as a whole," Merz said at a press conference.
The pledged investments were "a very powerful signal that we are currently experiencing a change in mood" among businesses.
Merz's government came to office in May with a pledge to revitalise Germany's struggling economy and boost investment.
The new administration has approved sweeping package of corporate tax breaks, including a stepwise reduction in corporation tax.
The government has also loosened constitutional spending limits to plough hundreds of billions into defence and infrastructure.
It said it would also look to slash red tape and reduce energy costs for businesses to make them more competitive.
The EU's traditional economic powerhouse has recorded two straight years in recession as elevated energy prices and growing international competition weigh on businesses.
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Euronews
an hour ago
- Euronews
Monthly rents in European city centres: 2020 vs 2025
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France 24
2 hours ago
- France 24
Europe hopes for 'no surprises' as US weighs force withdrawals
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France 24
2 hours ago
- France 24
Most markets rise, euro boosted after EU strikes US trade deal
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