Thousands protest in Brussels over Audi plant closure threat

Approximately 5,500 to 10,000 people gathered in Brussels to protest the potential closure of the Audi plant, which threatens to eliminate around 3,000 jobs.

The demonstration, highlights growing concerns about job losses and the future of the industrial sector in Europe, Caliber.Az reports via Belgian media.

Protesters marched through the city demanding that the European Union increase investment in the industrial sector to protect employment and oppose layoffs. The rally underscores the economic anxiety surrounding the possible shutdown of the Audi facility, scheduled for 2025 due to declining sales and escalating production costs.

The Financial Times reported on September 8 that European car manufacturers, facing a slump in electric vehicle (EV) demand, are cutting back on EV production. This trend could hinder the EU's ambitious goal to phase out internal combustion engines by 2035. European Commissioner for Internal Market, Thierry Breton, has noted that output of electric cars from EU factories is expected to decrease in 2024 compared to 2023.

The potential closure of the Audi plant in Brussels, as well as other facilities like the one in Germany, reflects broader challenges in the automotive industry. Volkswagen, Audi’s parent company, has announced that it is considering shutting down its high-end electric car production plant in Brussels, further fueling concerns among workers and local communities.