Securing the future, strengthening the location: What the TDI 2025 means for North Rhine-Westphalia
On June 23 and 24, 2025, the TDI (Day of Industry), an international future-oriented conference organized by the Federation of German Industries (BDI), took place in Berlin, providing insights from business, politics, science, and society. High-ranking speakers—including Chancellor Merz, various federal ministers, EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič, CEOs, and international guests (including Bill Gates)—discussed the future of Germany as a business location against the backdrop of current geopolitical instability and economic turbulence. A unanimous consensus was that strengthening economic competitiveness is a priority in order to (re)consolidate Germany's role in Europe.
What does this mean for North Rhine-Westphalia?
- Germany continues to see itself as one of the world's leading industrial nations, which is why industrial companies are to be supported by policymakers through a variety of measures (especially reducing bureaucracy and providing financial relief).
- A key lever is seen in lowering electricity prices. This includes reducing electricity tax and grid fees, as well as abolishing the gas storage levy, which should have a particularly strong indirect impact on energy-intensive industries, especially in North Rhine-Westphalia.
- In light of geopolitical instability, industry sees great opportunities in developing and expanding the defense sector. Based on increased personnel and financial resources, topics such as dual-use capabilities, cybersecurity, simplified procurement processes, and product standardization play a key role. Policymakers and industry intend to move forward together in this endeavor.
- Growth and competitiveness require sustainable structural reforms so that Germany can once again assume a leading (economic) role in Europe.
Source: https://www.nrwinnovativ.de
