BASF CEO Markus Kamieth has declared a new resolve for the company with the introduction of the hashtag "wegotthis," emphasizing his commitment to address the challenges facing the chemical giant as strategic transformations unfold. His strategy, branded 'Winning Ways,' was unveiled in the fall of 2024, reflecting the urgency with which he aims to reshape BASF and mitigate risks tied to external dependencies, particularly regarding energy supplies. This framework aims to steer the company through turbulent times marked by geopolitical instabilities such as the conflict in Ukraine.

Similar to his predecessor Martin Brudermüller, who painted a grim picture of the consequences of halting gas deliveries from Russia during the height of the Ukraine crisis, Kamieth's commentary is steeped in concern about the ramifications for BASF's operations. The reliance on Russian natural gas has exposed the company to vulnerabilities, and his warnings echo the dire forecasts made previously, highlighting potential irreversible damage to the economy should the energy supply be interrupted. This increasing tension signals a pressing need for BASF to reassess its energy strategy and overall business model to ensure sustainability and resilience.

As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, BASF's leadership is faced with the challenge of balancing immediate operational needs with long-term strategic shifts. The implications of excess dependency on foreign energy sources underline a critical issue not just for BASF but for the broader German manufacturing industry, which relies heavily on stable and affordable energy. The transition towards a more independent and sustainable energy portfolio may become central to ensuring the company’s survival and adaptability in the face of such challenges.