Border controls: Two thirds of companies demand immediate lifting!

Border controls: Two thirds of companies demand immediate lifting!

Border controls have been in place for people entering Germany for more than a year, and this measure is being viewed increasingly critically. A current survey by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK) shows that around two thirds of companies in the border region with Luxembourg are calling for an immediate end to the controls. 45% of companies surveyed would like the controls to be lifted immediately, while 18% would agree to an end after the deadline in March 2026. The survey, in which 60 companies took part between October 6th and 12th, provides a picture of the mood, but is not representative, as IHK Trier emphasizes.

Of the companies surveyed, almost half stated that they were negatively affected by border controls. 14% report large declines in sales, while 29% report moderate declines. Retail, logistics and services in the border region between Trier and Luxembourg are particularly affected. Many companies question the economic benefits of the controls and criticize the location of the checkpoints, especially on the A64. Traffic jams, lost time and rising operating costs contribute to dissatisfaction.

Economic impact and demands

The IHK Trier calls for intelligent solutions to reduce the burden on companies. This includes digital systems and fast lanes for regional vehicles to minimize bureaucratic effort. 37% of the companies surveyed are in favor of continuing the controls, but this is mainly for security reasons. Nevertheless, the tenor is clear: the majority of companies want to end the controls or at least reform them in order to make everyday business easier.

The border controls were introduced in September 2024 to reduce unauthorized entries. Originally ordered for six months, they were extended until September 2026. There are no such controls in the Schengen area, which leads to additional criticism, especially from commuters who are heavily affected by the regulations. Over 50,000 German cross-border commuters work in Luxembourg and are directly confronted with the effects of the controls.

conclusion

In summary, the IHK survey shows that regional companies are strongly in favor of an end to border controls. The economic disadvantages seem to outweigh the security policy arguments. Companies in the border region are now looking for solutions that can both facilitate business operations and ensure security. The topic remains current and will certainly remain the focus in the coming months.