BUSINESS NEWS - Mercedes-Benz reactivates severance program in Germany +++ China threatens EU with countermeasures in trade dispute

Mercedes-Benz launches severance program for personnel optimization and transformation. At the same time, China threatens the EU with countermeasures in the trade dispute over electric cars. Global economy under pressure from change and geopolitical tensions.

Stuttgart/Brussels, September 30, 2026. The automotive group Mercedes-Benz has reactivated a voluntary severance program for its employees in Germany. The program aims to optimize personnel costs and accelerate the company's transformation toward electromobility and digitalization. Simultaneously, the trade conflict between the European Union and China is escalating: Beijing threatened the EU with retaliatory measures should Brussels stick to the introduction of additional tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. These developments reflect the ongoing pressure on established industries and increasing geopolitical tensions in global trade.

The relaunch of the severance program at Mercedes-Benz is not an isolated occurrence but fits into a series of similar measures within the German automotive industry. Companies in this sector are facing a fundamental shift. The transition from the internal combustion engine to electromobility requires not only massive investments in research and development but also a realignment of production processes and workforce skill profiles. Employees with specialized knowledge in the field of internal combustion engines are increasingly less in demand, while specialists for software development, battery technology, and digital business models are urgently sought. Such programs allow companies to adjust headcount to new strategic necessities while simultaneously exercising social responsibility.

Global Trade Conflict in Focus

In parallel, the trade dispute between the EU and China is coming to a head. The European Commission had launched an investigation into alleged unfair subsidies for Chinese electric vehicles, which could lead to competitive distortions in the European market. China rejects these allegations and is now hinting at serious countermeasures should the EU implement its plans to introduce additional tariffs. This confrontation affects not only the automotive industry but potentially other sectors such as agricultural products or aviation, where China represents important sales markets for European goods. A trade war could have far-reaching consequences for the global economy, disrupt supply chains, and fuel inflation.

For students and graduates of MBA and Master's programs in the DACH countries, these developments are of high relevance. The transformation of the automotive industry creates uncertainties on the one hand, but also a multitude of new career opportunities on the other. Expertise in the areas of change management, supply chain management, digital business, and sustainability strategies is more in demand than ever. The ability to analyze complex economic and political contexts and make strategic decisions under uncertainty becomes a decisive competitive advantage in a volatile market environment. Graduates specializing in digital transformation, data-driven business models, and international economic relations will find attractive entry and development opportunities in these dynamic sectors.