Dow closes chemical plants in Saxony: 550 jobs at risk!

Dow closes chemical plants in Saxony: 550 jobs at risk!

In the shadow of Germany's chemical industry are current developments that are of great importance for many companies and employees in the region. The US chemical company Dow has announced that it will close part of its plants in the eastern German cities of Schkopau and Böhlen by 2027. Around 550 jobs will be affected, which is bitter news for employees and the entire industry. Loud MDR The reason for this decision is the constantly rising energy costs, fierce competition and declining demand in key industries.

The affected plants include the chlor-alkali and vinyl plants in Schkopau and the steam cracker in Böhlen, which are considered energy and cost-intensive. These plants are also at the beginning of the chemical value chain, which is why their closure could have far-reaching consequences. Dow operates a total of 13 locations in Germany with approximately 3,400 employees, and now the employees at the affected locations have to live with this uncertain future.

Political reactions and economic conditions

Dow's decision has caused concern and discontent among politicians. The district administrator of the Saale district, Hartmut Handschak, expressed his regret about the closures, but also sees the economic necessity. Saxony-Anhalt's Economics Minister Sven Schulze has already announced that he will form a working group to secure chemical sites and jobs. Schulze also calls for relief for the chemical industry with regard to high energy costs. This shows that there is a growing awareness in policy circles of the challenges facing the industry.

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry also expressed concern about the consequences of the closures for the chemical sites and the trade unions, especially the IGBCE, are also concerned and want to fight for jobs. Meanwhile, Saxony's Economics Minister Dirk Panter emphasizes that he wants to preserve the Böhlen location through new investments.

General situation in the chemical industry

All of these developments come at a time when the chemical industry is already facing significant challenges. Loud Association office From January to April 2025, the industry was affected by a decline in production of 1.1 percent compared to the previous year. This is primarily due to high energy prices, strict bureaucracy and stagnating sales. However, the hope of a revival in domestic business is giving the industry a slight boost.

Chemical companies have expressed optimism in recent months as they rely on increasing domestic demand. Despite all the difficulties, there is a change in sentiment within the chemical industry and political measures are aimed at achieving tax relief and reduced energy prices. Such developments could not only help chemistry, but also have positive effects across sectors that could promote stability in the automotive and construction industries.

The future of the chemical industry ultimately depends heavily on political decisions and the international framework. The situation is tense and it remains to be hoped that both politicians and companies have a good hand in setting the course for a positive development. After all, the chemical industry is a central part of German industry and the labor market, with its function as a supplier for many other sectors.