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Economic Minister Tonne finds prospects in the gaming sector

Hordes of video game enthusiasts gather in Cologne for the Gamescom event, an industry steadily flourishing for years. Minister Tonne perceives opportunities for Lower Saxony's economic growth from this vibrant scene.

Economy Minister Tonne perceives prospects in the video game sector
Economy Minister Tonne perceives prospects in the video game sector

Economic Minister Tonne finds prospects in the gaming sector

The gaming industry in Lower Saxony, Germany, is part of the broader German games market, which is currently experiencing renewed growth. In the first half of 2025, the market generated €4.6 billion in revenue, marking a 4% increase compared to the previous year.

While specific regional employment and turnover figures for Lower Saxony are not detailed, the state's active involvement in advanced technology sectors suggests a supportive environment for innovative developments. The gaming industry in Lower Saxony employs approximately 402 people across 75 companies.

The further professionalization of eSports leagues is creating additional jobs in the gaming industry. This growth is contributing to job creation in the sector, with more and more companies recognizing the opportunities for recruiting employees.

Lower Saxony's Economy Minister Grant Hendrik Tonne sees potential in the computer and video game industry. He made these comments at the Gamescom in Cologne, one of the world's largest trade fairs for video games. Tonne also mentioned the potential for qualification and training in the video game industry.

The video game industry is not just a hobby, but a significant part of the economy. Last year, the global turnover of the video game industry was approximately 264.2 billion euros. The growth in Germany’s games hardware segment (+17% in H1 2025), driven by hardware launches like Nintendo Switch 2, and a 4% increase in online gaming services, contribute to a positive outlook for employment and turnover in regions with tech infrastructure.

Games and eSports are no longer niche hobbies, but have become a part of society. They interface with many important technologies, such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence. As the tech ecosystem in Lower Saxony continues to evolve, the region's gaming companies could benefit from increased opportunities.

The potential for growth in the gaming sector is high given the overall market recovery, the increase in exhibition and developer activity around events like Gamescom, and Germany’s recognition of gaming as a significant entertainment medium engaging about 44 million people nationally. This could translate into increased opportunities for Lower Saxony's gaming companies as the state's tech ecosystem evolves.

In conclusion, while specific data for Lower Saxony is limited, the state's emphasis on tech innovation and startups, such as Quantum Valley Lower Saxony, positions the region well for potential expansion alongside the national market rebound. The gaming industry in Lower Saxony is primed for growth, creating additional jobs and contributing to the local economy.

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