Skip to content

German crafts leader slams tax system for punishing hard work

A top German trade leader says the tax system discourages ambition. Why do small businesses and skilled workers feel left behind?

The image shows a poster with two people standing in front of a backdrop of mountains and trees....
The image shows a poster with two people standing in front of a backdrop of mountains and trees. The text on the poster reads "What our free trade means - British Granite Worker - The Fair Wages Clause is all right, but I want work".

German crafts leader slams tax system for punishing hard work

Hans Peter Wollseifer, head of the German Confederation of Skilled Crafts (ZDH), has criticised current tax policies for failing to reward hard work. He argues that self-employed workers, foremen, and skilled employees see little benefit from putting in extra effort. His comments come amid broader debates about tax fairness and economic incentives. Wollseifer highlighted that many in the skilled trades—including top performers and entrepreneurs—feel overlooked by the tax system. He pointed out that three-quarters of small craft businesses gain nothing from cuts to corporate taxes. Instead, he believes tax policy should focus on rewarding performance and effort.

He also pushed back against calls for higher earners to pay more, noting that those with six-figure salaries are often unfairly singled out. While he accepted that some may need to contribute more, he argued that high performers and business owners who invest and create jobs should not face heavier burdens.

The ZDH president’s remarks reflect frustration among skilled workers and small business owners. His stance suggests that tax reforms should better recognise effort and investment. The debate over who should bear more tax responsibility is likely to continue.

Read also:

Latest