Germany to Recruit Truck Drivers from Uzbekistan to Counter Workforce Shortage
Trainees from Uzbekistan earn €800 during internship in Germany
Germany’s Papenburg logistics company is addressing the shortage of truck drivers by recruiting workers from abroad, including Uzbekistan. The company offers not only employment but also training aligned with European standards, providing financial support to trainees during the training period.
In a report by DW, Uzbek trainee Abbosjon Odilov shared that he currently earns €800 per month, which is significantly higher than the average salary in Uzbekistan. However, he mentioned the challenges of working in Germany, particularly the importance of punctuality.
Papenburg, which specializes in asphalt and concrete production, has all the necessary resources but lacks sufficient workers. Since 2020, the company has trained over 60 Uzbek truck drivers, according to Angela Papenburg, the head of the HR department.
With the majority of Uzbekistan’s population being young, Papenburg sees this partnership as beneficial for both parties, addressing youth unemployment in Uzbekistan while filling the need for truck drivers in Germany.
The existing migration agreement between Germany and Uzbekistan facilitates the documentation process for Uzbek workers, making it easier for them to join the workforce in Germany. Papenburg also plans to conduct training sessions directly in Uzbekistan, providing drivers with the opportunity to gain international experience and acquire a profession in high demand in Europe.
Germany currently faces a shortage of 70,000 truck drivers, leading to undelivered orders and logistical delays. By recruiting trainees from Uzbekistan, Papenburg aims to alleviate this shortage and provide opportunities for both the company and the workers.
