Germany's Trade Inspections Uncover 2,200 Potential Labor Law Violations
On Friday, September 19, 2025, trade supervisory authorities across Germany, backed by social insurance carriers, conducted inspections in the hotel and restaurant sector. They oversee around 2,600 employees across 5,200 workplaces, ensuring compliance with labor laws and social security regulations. Preliminary findings suggest possible violations in around 2,200 cases.
Approximately 2,600 customs employees surveyed over 5,200 workers and inspected over 430 business records. They discovered potential issues such as withholding social security contributions in over 400 cases, illegal foreign employment in around 450 cases, and minimum wage violations in nearly 600 cases. On-site, customs officers initiated around 370 criminal and nearly 800 administrative offense proceedings. Additionally, around 200 cases of staying without a residence permit were identified.
Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil emphasized the importance of operations like these in enforcing the rule of law and protecting workers from exploitation. The inspections highlight the commitment of authorities to uphold labor laws and social security regulations in the hotel and restaurant sector.
