Further information

On this page, you will find the FAQs relating to the industry division.

FAQ

• Is the Industry Division responsible for ensuring that the economy does not suffer during crises?

  No – our task under the National Economic Supply Act is not to protect the entire economy from crises, but to ensure that the population continues to be supplied with essential goods and services during shortages.

  Specifically, we only intervene when the economy can no longer ensure this supply independently, and only with companies that contribute to vital supply – e.g., in the areas of food, energy, or therapeutic products.

• How does the Industry Division collaborate with representatives from the economy?

  Collaboration with the economy is central to our work. We maintain regular exchanges with industry associations, companies, and expert groups to receive early indications of potential supply gaps.
  We maintain close contact with our militia cadre – economic representatives from various sectors.

  This close cooperation enables us to conduct realistic analyses of emerging bottlenecks and develop practical measures.

• Are there public reports on the supply situation in the industry?

  Yes, information on the current supply situation – including in the industrial sector – is available on the official website of the National Economic Supply (NES): Versorgungslage (in german).
  

  There you will find a regularly updated overview of the supply situation in all NES sectors, including background information and any measures taken. In special situations or in the event of imminent shortages, relevant sectors are informed in a targeted manner.

• When is supply considered secured?

  Supply is considered secured when the population can be provided with the relevant essential goods or services in sufficient quantity and quality – without extraordinary government intervention.
  As soon as it becomes clear that the economy can no longer manage this on its own and a shortage is foreseeable, we examine possible stabilization or intervention measures.

• How long does a support measure by the NES last?

  The duration depends heavily on the situation. Support measures usually last from a few days to a few months, until the economy has stabilized enough to resume its supply role independently.
  Our goal is short-term stabilization – not long-term replacement.

• Who decides whether an industrial product is included in strategic stockpiling?

  The decision to include an industrial product in the strategic stockpile is made by the Federal Council upon proposal by the EAER. Suggestions for goods to be stockpiled come from the economy and politics. The National Economic Supply (NES) examines whether the good can be considered essential, as strategic stockpiling is legally permitted only for vital goods. To this end, the NES assesses the supply situation as well as the risks and consequences of a severe shortage. If the assessment is positive, the NES drafts a regulation. This draft is submitted for consultation, and the results of the consultation are evaluated. Subsequently, the Federal Council enacts the strategic stockpile ordinance. Based on this, the EAER, in coordination with the NES, determines the quantity and quality of the goods to be stockpiled.