Germany’s inland shipping sector will receive increased financial support for training and fleet modernisation from 2026. The federal budget committee has approved an additional EUR 2.4 million for vocational training, raising total funding to EUR 6.8 million. This decision follows a proposal from the governing coalition and responds to calls from the federal association of German inland shipping (BDB), which warned of the impact of earlier budget cuts.

With an ageing workforce, the industry urgently needs new recruits according to BDB. “This decision ensures the stable financing of training at a consistently high level,” said BDB managing director Jens Schwanen. "We are very grateful that the government’s earlier plans have been revised." (js)

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