On the discussion of German border controls with Austria and the Czech Republic, the Confederation of German Employers' Associations declares:

A functioning internal market is essential for economic recovery

Berlin, 16 February 2021 "With the controls now introduced at the borders with the Czech Republic and Tyrol, the German government shows that it has unfortunately not learned from the initial mistakes of uncoordinated border closures from the spring of 2020.

Border controls are already hampering economic activity and severely affecting the closely interwoven international supply chains. After all, the free movement of workers, smooth transport routes, cross-border service provision and business travel are indispensable for a functioning European single market. Commuting is also of great relevance for many German companies, not only for individually listed systemically relevant businesses.

The fact is that open borders in the Schengen area must not be abolished unilaterally - European coordination is always required here. In addition, any border closure must be proportionate and respect the principle of non-discrimination. To contain the pandemic, we need effective and proportionate measures with the least possible economic impact."