Tschentscher Praises Hamburg's Economic Performance - Hamburg’s economy surges 1.1% in 2025 while Germany’s powerhouses falter
Hamburg’s economy grew by 1.1% in early 2025, outperforming the national average and leaving other major states behind. While Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, and Schleswig-Holstein faced economic declines, Hamburg thrived in tourism, construction, and port activity. Meanwhile, Schleswig-Holstein pushed ahead with climate and digital reforms despite its downturn.
Hamburg’s GDP rise stood out as the USA stagnated. The city-state digitised 300 administrative processes, cutting red tape and speeding up services. It also expanded housing for trainees, built new schools, and upgraded its port infrastructure.
Between 2022 and 2025, Schleswig-Holstein focused on long-term growth despite its recent slump. The state invested €500 million in the Wachstumsinitiative SH to improve roads, research, and business support. Its Digitalstrategie 2030 aimed for full gigabit broadband by 2025, while offshore wind farms and battery tech advanced under climate policies. To boost jobs, Schleswig-Holstein launched the Fachkräfteoffensive, targeting 50,000 new skilled workers by 2030 through immigration incentives and training. Startups gained tax breaks via Gründungsland SH, and Minister-President Daniel Günther urged firms to keep investing in innovation. UVNord’s Philipp Murmann echoed this call, stressing digital upgrades and streamlined government operations. Yet Hamburg’s success contrasted sharply with Schleswig-Holstein’s struggles in early 2025. While the northern state led in green energy and digital plans, its economy shrank alongside Bavaria’s and Baden-Württemberg’s.
Hamburg’s growth highlights its strength in key sectors, while Schleswig-Holstein’s reforms target future resilience. The state’s climate and digital projects remain on track, even as its economy lags. Both regions now face the challenge of sustaining progress amid broader economic uncertainty.
