The number of self-employed persons in the chemical, rubber, plastics, and fuel products sectors as well as other non-metallic mineral products in Germany was stable at 24,000 in both 2024 and 2025. However, a slight decline to 23,000 is expected for 2026 and this level remains stable until 2028. This indicates a gradual negative trend as compared to the figures prior to 2024. The variation shows a steady decline of 4.2% from 2024 to 2027.
Future trends to watch include the impact of emerging technologies and automation on self-employment opportunities, as well as potential shifts in demand driven by sustainability and regulatory changes. Factors such as geopolitical tensions and supply chain challenges could also shape this sector. Monitoring these elements will be crucial for forecasting long-term shifts in self-employment rates.
