AUMA praises inclusion of important trade fair topics in coalition agreement

AUMA has thoroughly examined the coalition agreement between the CDU/CSU and SPD. The result: many of the trade fair industry's key concerns are reflected in the agreements. This is a positive sign for the association – now it is important that words are followed by action.

Strengthen trade fair promotion, improve accessibility

The future federal government intends to provide additional funding for foreign trade promotion in order to offer greater support to companies—a long-standing demand of the trade fair industry. Tax and energy price relief has also been announced. At the same time, rail and air connections are to be expanded in order to better connect German trade fair locations to the international network.

Reduce bureaucracy, simplify reporting requirements

Another issue is reducing reporting requirements for companies. The national supply chain law is to be abolished and the European regulation fundamentally revised. Small and medium-sized enterprises in particular could benefit from this. Municipal companies are to be included in the SME definition in future – a point that the AUMA has repeatedly called for.

Promote foreign trade, make working hours more flexible

Faster free trade agreements: this is also one of the new German government's priorities. This is good news for export-oriented exhibitors. AUMA also sees the planned flexibilization of working hours, for example through a weekly working time instead of daily maximum limits, as an important step for trade fairs in practice. The association intends to closely monitor the implementation of the plans and make adjustments if necessary.