Germany ready to train and employ truck drivers from Uzbekistan amid workforce shortage

To address the shortage of truck drivers, Germany’s prominent Papenburg logistics company plans to recruit workers from abroad, including Uzbekistan, according to a DW report.

The company offers not just employment but also training aligned with European standards. Trainees receive financial support during the training period. DW interviewed one of the Uzbek trainees, Abbosjon Odilov, who shared that he currently earns €800 per month — significantly higher than the average salary in Uzbekistan. However, he also noted the challenges of working in Germany.

“Punctuality has been the hardest thing for me. In Germany, everything must happen on time,” said Odilov.

Papenburg, which also specializes in asphalt and concrete production, has all the necessary resources but lacks sufficient workers. Since 2020, the company has undertaken the professional training of more than 60 Uzbek truck drivers, according to Angela Papenburg, the head of the HR department.

“The majority of Uzbekistan’s population is young. This is why unemployment in some regions predominantly affects the youth. I believe this is a win-win situation for both of us,” she stated.

DW noted that the existing migration agreement between Germany and Uzbekistan facilitates the documentation process for Uzbek workers.

The company also plans to conduct training sessions directly in Uzbekistan. This initiative offers Uzbek drivers the opportunity to gain international experience and acquire a profession in high demand in one of Europe’s leading countries.

Currently, Germany faces a shortage of 70,000 truck drivers, resulting in undelivered orders and logistical delays.