Berlin, May 7, 2025. The German Potato Trade Association (Deutscher Kartoffelhandelsverband e.V., DKHV) looks to the new federal government with optimism and welcomes the appointment of the new cabinet as an opportunity for forward-looking reforms. The DKHV sees potential in the new political leadership for cross-departmental, practical solutions that can sustainably enhance the competitiveness and future viability of the German potato sector.
Reducing Bureaucracy and Advancing Digitalization as Key Industry Concerns
The industry has been struggling for years with increasing regulation and administrative burdens. In a recent member survey conducted by the DKHV, three-quarters of businesses identified excessive bureaucracy as their greatest challenge. Criticism is particularly focused on lengthy approval processes, redundant documentation requirements, partly due to insufficiently digitized reporting systems, inconsistent regulations between federal, state, and EU levels, and frequently changing technical and material standards.
The association therefore calls for targeted relief: “The current structures are stifling innovation and growth. We need streamlined regulations, uniform standards, and a digitized administrative system that ensures planning reliability and efficiency,” said DKHV Managing Director Dr. Sebastean Schwarz.
Constructive Dialogue as the Path Forward
In light of the current challenges, the DKHV is committed to close cooperation with the new federal government. From the association’s perspective, the personnel appointments in the relevant ministries provide a solid foundation to jointly develop viable solutions for a high-performing, sustainable, and future-oriented potato industry.
DKHV Managing Director Dr. Sebastian Schwarz. (Photo: DKHV)
About the DKHV:
The German Potato Trade Association (Deutscher Kartoffelhandelsverband e.V., DKHV) is an independent industry association representing the interests of around 170 potato traders, packers, peeling companies, as well as breeders, growers, and manufacturers of packaging materials and potato-related technology. The association regularly organizes events and conferences to promote exchange within the potato industry and to provide key industry information.
