According to the Federal Statistical Office, the total number of employed individuals fell to 45.6 million, continuing a negative trend observed since summer 2025. Adjusted for seasonal effects, the decline remains at 61,000 or 0.1%. Year-over-year, employment decreased by 0.3%. The manufacturing and construction sectors were notably impacted, with reductions of 2.1% and 1.1%, respectively. In contrast, the service sector saw a modest increase of 45,000 jobs, primarily driven by growth in public services, education, and health, which added 181,000 positions (+1.5%). Overall, the number of employees subject to social security contributions decreased by 120,000 to 42 million.