welt.de
German Chemical Industry Stabilizes, but Recovery Remains Elusive
The German chemical and pharmaceutical industry's turnover slightly decreased by 0.5 percent to €107 billion in the first half of 2024, while production fell by 1 percent; however, the pharmaceutical sector showed a 2 percent production increase, counteracting the 3 percent decrease in the chemical sector. The industry expects recovery only in 2025.
- What is the overall state of the German chemical and pharmaceutical industry, and what are the most immediate consequences of its current performance?
- The German chemical and pharmaceutical industry showed slight stabilization in the first half of 2024, with a minimal 0.5 percent decrease in turnover to €107 billion and a 1 percent drop in production. However, around 40 percent of member companies reported a lack of orders, indicating the industry hasn't fully recovered.
- How did the performance of the pharmaceutical sector differ from that of the chemical sector in the first half of 2024, and what factors explain these differences?
- Despite the slight downturn, the pharmaceutical sector showed growth (2 percent increase in production), offsetting the 3 percent decline in the chemical sector's production. This highlights the pharmaceutical sector's resilience and its contribution to overall industry stability. The stability in employment (around 480,000) is noteworthy, considering company cutbacks.
- What are the main obstacles preventing the German chemical and pharmaceutical industry's recovery, and what are the likely long-term consequences of these challenges?
- The industry anticipates a recovery only in 2025. Persistent challenges include the US trade dispute, high energy prices, and economic slowdown. The ongoing impact of these factors suggests a prolonged period of adjustment and restructuring before a significant upswing is observed. The demand for industrial electricity price reductions and bureaucratic reform highlights structural issues hindering growth.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the industry's situation negatively, emphasizing the downturn and lack of recovery. The headline (if there was one) likely emphasized the decline rather than the stabilization. The lead paragraph focuses on the slight decrease in turnover, setting a pessimistic tone. While reporting factual data, the emphasis on negative aspects shapes the overall narrative.
Language Bias
The language used is relatively neutral, employing terms like "sank", "stagnating", and "decline." However, phrases such as "rasante Talfahrt" (rapid descent) and "Auftragsmangel" (lack of orders) carry a somewhat stronger negative connotation than strictly neutral terms. The repeated focus on negative aspects contributes to an overall negative tone.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the negative aspects of the German chemical and pharmaceutical industry's performance, mentioning setbacks and challenges but providing limited information on potential positive developments or successful initiatives within the sector. While acknowledging the impact of US tariffs and energy prices, it omits discussion of other potential contributing factors to the industry's struggles or any government support measures besides the mentioned calls for an industrial electricity price and reduced bureaucracy. The article could benefit from a more balanced presentation including counterpoints or alternative perspectives.
Sustainable Development Goals
The German chemical and pharmaceutical industry is experiencing a slowdown, with production down 1% and a slight decrease in turnover. High energy prices, economic slowdown, and the trade dispute with the US are cited as significant factors impacting growth and potentially leading to job losses. This negatively affects decent work and economic growth in the sector.