Nutrition summit in Halle: focus on specialists and costs

At the eighth Central German Food Summit in Halle, representatives of the food industry discussed their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. "I am proud that Saxony-Anhalt is presenting itself so strongly today at the Central German Food Summit," said Saxony-Anhalt's Minister of Agriculture, Sven Schulze (CDU).

The food industry is one of the largest employers in the state and plays a key role in the regional economy. Agriculture also forms the backbone of rural areas. "This summit brings business and agriculture together perfectly and strengthens not only Saxony-Anhalt, but also the entire Central German region," said Schulze.

Skills shortage and rising costs put the industry under pressure

In the so-called Halle Declaration, the representatives of the Central German food industry called for reliable framework conditions, particularly with regard to energy and raw material prices, which are currently placing a heavy burden on the industry. The rising costs of logistics and transportation are also putting pressure on companies. The food industry is also facing an increasing shortage of skilled workers, which is jeopardizing production security, and is calling on the federal government to take targeted measures to recruit workers - including through immigration.

In addition, the industry called for a reduction in bureaucracy and excessive regulations, which weaken the competitiveness of companies. To ensure the future viability of the Central German food industry, the companies are also calling for easier financing and more funding to enable investments in automation and digitalization.

According to the organizer, around 250 to 300 participants come together every year to discuss the future of the Central German food industry. The food industry is one of the highest-turnover and most employment-intensive sectors of the economy in Saxony-Anhalt as well as in Saxony and Thuringia.