According to finance minister Olaf Scholz, Germany has a good chance of avoiding the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic but certain measures need to be put in place to make sure this happens. German finance minister Olaf Scholz said Germany had a “very good chance” of avoiding the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. He added, however, that for this to happen Germany must adapt its life to the “new normality”. The finance Minister said, “We are learning to live with a virus, I call it a new normality,” said Scholz, adding that only a drug or a coronavirus vaccine can change the situation “Until this happens,” announced the minister. At the same time, he estimated that Germany had a “very, very high chance” that the second wave of the pandemic would not happen.
Scholz also announced that the new EUR 130 billion stimulus package will be implemented in June, so that a reduced VAT rate will apply from July. According to the program reduced rates – 16%. Instead of 19% and 5% instead of 7% – they will remain in force until the end of the year. As part of the package, families with children will receive an additional EUR 300 for each child.