Maintaining Business Operations Continuity
In a recent survey conducted by the Düsseldorf Chamber of Crafts, key policy recommendations for supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) during the COVID-19 pandemic were not explicitly stated. However, based on general knowledge, chambers of crafts and similar organizations typically advocate for measures such as financial support (grants or loans), easing of regulatory burdens, providing digitalization support, improving access to protective equipment, and facilitating training or advisory services.
For the Düsseldorf Chamber of Crafts, the survey involved 240 master craftsmen and 35 heads of state trade associations in the NRW economic sector. The findings, summarised by Andreas Ehlert, emphasised the importance of the commercial middle class for Germany's recovery from the Corona recession.
The survey participants identified a reform of corporate taxation as the most frequently called-for measure, with 61 percent seeking a reduction in the tax burden. Lower application thresholds and faster disbursement of aid were also demanded by many top representatives.
Craft associations also called for more transparency and speed from authorities, as well as a swift vaccination strategy and more consistent combat of infection risks in public spaces.
Moreover, 70 percent of craft representatives called for faster and less bureaucratic reimbursement of infection- and quarantine-related costs. Each 36 percent of respondents supported a permanent reduction in value-added tax and a shortening of depreciation periods.
62 percent of craft representatives called for relief in tax loss carry-backs, and every second association speaker voted for a complete suspension of the solidarity surcharge.
Secure childcare for company employees is vital to keep businesses running for almost half (46 percent) of the association heads. Additionally, uniform information and implementation practice by health authorities is desired by the craft associations.
Every 25 percent of the participants wanted better possibilities for suspending loan repayments. The craft sector also requested more consistent enforcement of corona protection regulations and faster vaccination for improved health protection.
For further details on the specific policy recommendations from the Düsseldorf Chamber of Crafts, we recommend checking their official website or contacting them directly.
In the context of the survey, 61% of the participants advocated for a reduction in corporate taxation, while 70% called for faster and less bureaucratic reimbursement of infection- and quarantine-related costs. Furthermore, the craft sector has emphasized the importance of financial support, with some associations suggesting relief in tax loss carry-backs and a complete suspension of the solidarity surcharge.
