Also the Bitkom-ifo Digital Index, which measures the current business situation in the ICT sector and business expectations for the near future, points in a positive direction. Although the economic indicator has fallen noticeably since summer 2021, it is still almost at pre-coronavirus levels and significantly above the values for the overall economy.
"Whether it's climate, pandemics, or location competition – digitalization is the answer and a crucial part of solving the crises and challenges of our time. Business, government, and large parts of society want to accelerate digitalization and are investing in digital infrastructures, devices, software, and services,"
says Bitkom President Achim Berg.
“The coronavirus pandemic has given momentum to digitalization, and this is stimulating the market.”
Revenue in the ICT sector already increased significantly in 2021. The volume grew by 3.9 percent to 178.4 billion euros, primarily due to strong business with IT hardware and software.
“Good and digitally competent people are the most important factor when it comes to advancing Germany digitally.”
Berg stated that 150,000 additional jobs have been created in the ICT sector over the past five years. A major problem is the shortage of skilled workers. Currently, 96,000 IT specialist positions are unfilled.
"This means less growth, less added value, and less innovation – and it slows us down in digitalization and widens the gap with pioneers like the USA. Good, digitally competent people are the most important factor when it comes to advancing Germany's digital transformation and regaining digital sovereignty."
says Achim Berg. Germany's share of global ICT spending is declining annually and is expected to reach 3.9 percent in 2022. This is primarily due to faster growth in other countries, especially the USA, India, and China.
