Mercedes threatens to close factories in Germany

The German automaker Mercedes-Benz has announced the suspension of all new investments at its German plants and is considering factory closures if production costs do not decrease. The group cites excessive costs and increased competition, particularly from Chinese manufacturers. Management is demanding concessions from employees, including a possible increase in the workweek from 35 to 40 hours without a corresponding increase in pay. Negotiations with the IG Metall union remain deadlocked, posing further threats to jobs and the German automotive industry.