Thousands of German farmers, truck drivers, and agricultural workers gathered in front of Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate to protest the government’s plans to eliminate tax breaks on diesel. With tractors and heavy equipment in tow, the protesters caused traffic blockages and service delays for Berlin’s public transit agency. About 10,000 people had registered for the demonstration, with an estimated 2,000 more on the way, prompting the deployment of 1,300 police officers.
Finance Minister Christian Lindner and representatives from the farmers’ association and trade unions were expected to address the protesters. The government had initially announced plans to reduce subsidies and tax breaks on diesel and agricultural vehicles after a court ruling created a budget shortfall. However, the government partially reversed the decision, retaining tax exemption for farming vehicles and staggering cuts in diesel tax breaks over three years. Despite this, many farmers feel that the concessions do not go far enough, with one farmer expressing concern that “far more food will be imported” if subsidies are not restored.