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German government considers lifeline for embattled luxury shipbuilder

The German government is considering support for Meyer Werft, among the world's greatest cruise liner contractors, an economy ministry representative said on Wednesday, as the cashstrapped company mapped out hundreds of planned task cuts to stem expenses.

The government is considering federal support for Meyer Werft together with the state of Lower Saxony, home of the shipyard in Papenburg where the over 200-year-old company is based.

Meyer Werft needs to raise around 2.7 billion euros ($ 2.91. billion) in the coming years, according to restructuring chief. Ralf Schmitz. This sum is comprised of 2.3 billion euros in. working capital and 400 million euros required in equity to cover. previous losses and restructuring costs.

The specific scenarios of the situation would be evaluated. before a choice is taken, the ministry spokesperson stated at a. press conference in Berlin.

Following a meeting in between management and the IG Metall. trade union, both sides said the number of planned task cuts at. the shipbuilder had been minimized from 440 to 340, leaving Meyer. Werft with a headcount of at least 3,100 employees by the end of. 2030.

(source: Reuters)