On the evening of 24 August 2024, a high-level discussion took place at the Chemnitz Industrial Museum between representatives of the industrial associations in the Chemnitz region and Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer. The event, which was organised by the four associations Industrieverein Sachsen 1828 e.V., AMZ Netzwerk Automobilzulieferer Sachsen, Innovationsverbund Maschinenbau Sachsen VEMASinnovativ and Wasserstoff-Technologiecluster HZwo e.V., provided a platform for in-depth discussions on key topics of Saxony's industrial policy. Markus Geisenberger, Managing Director of Leipziger Messe, took part in his role as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Industrieverein Sachsen.

In a keynote speech, Minister President Kretschmer outlined his ideas for industrial policy in the coming years and emphasised the need to further develop Saxony as a strong and innovative industrial location. He also addressed the current political challenges, in particular the issues of migration and the associated political tensions. Kretschmer emphasised the importance of a stable government that is able to make long-term decisions and position Saxony as a reliable partner on the national stage.

Chemnitz state parliament member Ines Saborowski (CDU) then spoke, focussing on the specific economic challenges and opportunities facing the Chemnitz region. She emphasised the need for greater support for the region of south-west Saxony, which is undergoing a profound transformation process, particularly in the automotive sector. Saborowski called for the investment efforts made in other parts of Saxony to date to be continued in the Chemnitz region.

This was followed by an open discussion in which the representatives of the industry associations put specific questions to the Minister President. The topics ranged from the challenges of structural change in the automotive industry, the exodus of companies, the shortage of skilled labour, the link between schools and business to the promotion of innovation and the role of hydrogen in regional value creation. Minister President Kretschmer emphasised the importance of an ongoing dialogue between politics and industry in order to jointly develop solutions and secure the future of the Chemnitz region.

The event then offered the opportunity for in-depth discussions in an informal setting, which were used intensively to strengthen networks and discuss further collaborations.