Volkswagen workers to go on warning strikes across Germany

Volkswagen workers in Germany will stage warning strikes over layoffs, wage cuts, and plant closures as talks with labour union IG Metall fail to reach a resolution.

Volkswagen workers across Germany will begin warning strikes on Monday, marking the first large-scale walkouts at the automaker's domestic plants since 2018, labour union IG Metall announced.

The strikes escalate a dispute over proposed mass layoffs, wage cuts, and potential plant closures, measures Volkswagen deems necessary in response to Chinese competition and weakening demand.

Following failed negotiations, IG Metall authorised limited strikes starting early December. "If required, this could become Volkswagen's toughest collective bargaining battle," said IG Metall negotiator Thorsten Groeger.

The union criticised Volkswagen's demands, including a 10% wage cut, and rejected plant closure threats, arguing for alternatives to save costs.

Volkswagen stated its commitment to dialogue, respecting employees' right to strike while taking steps to minimise disruptions. Talks are scheduled to resume on 9 December, with unions demanding a sustainable agreement to secure the future of all German plants.

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