CDU and SPD agree on training place levy - Berlin's new apprenticeship levy targets training shortages by 2028
Berlin's political parties have reached a deal on a new apprenticeship levy aimed at tackling the city's long-standing shortage of training opportunities. The CDU and SPD factions drafted a law that would require certain businesses to contribute to a fund supporting more apprenticeship positions. If approved, the changes would not come into force until 2028.
The proposed law targets companies with at least ten employees but an apprenticeship rate below 4.6 percent. These firms would pay into a central fund, expected to generate a minimum of €75 million each year. The money would then help businesses that create extra apprenticeship spots.
Smaller businesses and those already meeting the 4.6 percent threshold would be exempt from the levy. The draft still needs parliamentary debate and approval before becoming law. It remains unclear how many Berlin companies would be affected, as specific figures have not been released. The levy is part of a broader effort to address Berlin's persistent shortage of apprenticeship places. For years, the city has struggled to provide enough training opportunities for young people entering the workforce. If passed, the new rules would mark a significant shift in how businesses contribute to vocational training.
The apprenticeship levy would launch in 2028 if the draft law gains parliamentary support. The fund's annual €75 million target would directly support businesses expanding their training programmes. The measure aims to ease Berlin's ongoing shortage of apprenticeship positions over the long term.
