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In April 2025, incoming orders in North Rhine-Westphalia's mechanical and plant engineering sector were 15% below the previous year's result.

In March 2025, incoming orders in the mechanical and plant engineering sector in North Rhine-Westphalia were 22% down on the previous year.

In February 2025, incoming orders in the mechanical and plant engineering sector in North Rhine-Westphalia were 16% higher in real terms than in February 2024.

Incoming orders in North Rhine-Westphalia's mechanical and plant engineering sector in January 2025 were 1% higher in real terms than in January 2024.

In December 2024, incoming orders in the mechanical and plant engineering sector in North Rhine-Westphalia were 10% higher than in the previous year.

In November 2024, incoming orders in the mechanical and plant engineering sector in North Rhine-Westphalia were 6% down on the previous year.

The mechanical and plant engineering industry in North Rhine-Westphalia continues to be burdened by the weak global economy and by geopolitical challenges. VDMA NRW expects production to decline by 2% in real terms in 2025.

In October 2024, incoming orders in the mechanical and plant engineering sector in North Rhine-Westphalia were 7% higher in real terms than in the previous year.

Incoming orders in North Rhine-Westphalia's mechanical and plant engineering sector in September 2024 were 14% down on the previous year in real terms

China's mechanical engineering industry continues to catch up, products from the Far East are getting better and are almost always cheaper. China is not only striving for technological supremacy locally, but also internationally.

In August 2024, incoming orders in North Rhine-Westphalia's mechanical and plant engineering sector were 10% down on the previous year's result.

VDMA NRW is adjusting its production forecast for 2024 to minus 8 percent in real terms. At the beginning of the year, VDMA NRW was still forecasting a decline in production of 2% in real terms.

In July 2024, incoming orders in the North Rhine-Westphalian mechanical and plant engineering sector were 10 per cent down on the previous year.

Incoming orders in North Rhine-Westphalia's mechanical and plant engineering sector in June 2024 were 15% down on the previous year.

In May 2024, incoming orders in the North Rhine-Westphalian mechanical and plant engineering sector fell 45% short of the previous year's result.

In March 2024, incoming orders in the mechanical and plant engineering sector in North Rhine-Westphalia were 12% higher than in the previous year.

In February 2024, incoming orders in the mechanical and plant engineering sector in North Rhine-Westphalia were 3% down on the previous year.

Incoming orders in North Rhine-Westphalia's mechanical and plant engineering sector in January 2024 fell 16% short of the previous year's result.

In December 2023, incoming orders in North Rhine-Westphalia's mechanical and plant engineering sector fell short of the previous year's level by 25% on a price-adjusted basis.

The VDMA NRW expects sales to fall by 4% in real terms in 2024. This forecast reflects the negative trend in demand over the past year.

In November 2023, demand for machinery and equipment from North Rhine-Westphalia was down 19% year-on-year in real terms

NRW's mechanical and plant engineering sector is not only suffering from the effects of global challenges, but also from the implementation of EU regulations, excessive bureaucracy and a lack of planning security.

The Chinese ban on the supply of rare earths is causing unrest. VDMA President Bertram Kawlath explains why SMEs are particularly affected in the ZEIT business podcast.

Canada wants to expand its economic partnerships - an opportunity for Europe. It is crucial that the CETA free trade agreement is finally implemented in full.

If export goods are not delivered, there is a risk of high losses - especially for custom-made products. Hermes Cover protects against losses due to sanctions or geopolitical conflicts, among other things.

Nine major business associations from Germany have issued a joint appeal warning that progress on cutting red tape in Europe should not be jeopardized.

April brings an increase in orders and a rise in sales thanks to international business.

From the VDMA's perspective, visa policy and technical interfaces are among the top issues for German-Brazilian cooperation in mechanical engineering. The German-Brazilian Business Days provide an opportunity for exchange.

The 6th edition of the VDMA Technology Guide Oil Gas Petrochemicals with focus on Net-Zero Solutions for energy-intensive Industries. Are you among the Who's Who of European process technology suppliers?

Europe's construction industry is recovering - thanks to stable prices, better financing and EU funding. Residential construction will be the most important driver in future, with significant growth. In Germany, however, this will not become a reality until 2027 at the earliest.

In May 2025, 257 new firefighting vehicles were registered in Germany.

Chinese companies often enjoy competition-distorting advantages and subsidies. In a new position paper, the VDMA makes demands on German and European politicians to counteract these disadvantages.

For the guidance of member companies, the specialist department for water and wastewater technology has compiled a data sheet on foreign trade in machinery with India and with key data on India's water sector.

A new industry expert from the Africa Business Network in Côte d'Ivoire has been identifying specific business opportunities for German providers of environmental technologies since November 2024. One focus is on projects in the water sector.

Incoming orders for machine tools from China rose by 27.9% (YoY) to 34 billion yen in April, marking the 13th consecutive month of growth. The lively investment activity of local manufacturers continues.

US tariffs harm trade worldwide

Current activities in the agricultural context

Current forecasts, key figures and background information on agricultural framework conditions, business and market development - worldwide, in Europe and in Germany.

International Financial Institutions (IFIs) finance numerous projects in developing and emerging countries worldwide.

The global business situation in the mechanical engineering sector remains mixed. While India and Brazil are impressing with good figures, China is struggling with structural challenges. The USA is characterized by the latest tariff policy.

VDMA Forecast 2025: Investment restraint shapes the outlook; New momentum expected from the leading trade fair automatica in Munich

The obligation to comply with energy efficiency standards for newly established data centers is being discussed.

The Council has adopted its negotiating mandate on the eDeclaration. This is a first step towards less bureaucracy in the area of posting of workers.

The EU-Commission has presented a Single Market strategy and focuses on removing the 10 most harmful obstacles, including barriers to the posting of workers.

This article provides an overview of the wide range of support available to German companies wishing to enter the African market. The overview is updated regularly, but does not claim to be exhaustive.

For the orientation of VDMA member companies, the German Engineering Federation has created a new data sheet on foreign trade in machinery with Brazil.

How well do you know the VDMA statistics database? And how often do you use it? Join us on a half-hour tour and get to know our wide range of data.

Letters of credit or advance payment are not very attractive in a competitive environment. Credit insurance for payment terms is an alternative. These are also an entry into export financing.

The EU and the United Kingdom have decided to enter into a dialog on the entry and stay of persons for business purposes. The VDMA hopes that this will facilitate work assignments in the United Kingdom.

Incoming orders in the mechanical engineering sector in the 1st quarter and especially in March increased sharply. However, this is only temporary due to major orders from the chemical, marine machinery and telecommunications sectors.

The mechanical engineering sector started the year with a subdued export result. March at least showed a slight upward trend. However, the weaknesses in the Chinese and EU markets remain serious.

The EU provides consolidated versions of its sanctions regulations. In the case of the Russia sanctions, the consolidated legal texts have now been updated to the 16th sanctions package.

On May 20, 2025, the EU published its 17th package of sanctions against Russia. The measures (5 amending regulations) all come into force on May 21, 2025. Some of the tightened sanctions are also relevant for the mechanical and plant engineering industry.

The digital transformation in mechanical engineering is also reflected in total IT costs, which have been rising at an average rate of 5% per year faster than sales since 2017.

POWTECH TECHNOPHARM will take place in Nuremberg this year from September 23rd to 25th. Find out here how to get your free visitor ticket.

The textile machinery industry continues to face a challenging market environment. Global demand remains subdued and almost all sales markets are affected by a reluctance to invest.

Foreign exchange market was deregulated in March 2024. But expectations that exports would pick up afterwards were not fulfilled. VDMA members in Egypt nevertheless report good business.

Saudi Arabia in transition offers both challenges and opportunities. Local presence remains crucial, and not just because of increasing Chinese competition.

Incoming orders and sales in the process engineering sector develop negatively in March Incoming orders: slightly down / turnover: very clearly down on the same month last year.

EU Commissioner Séjourné signals a change in policy to strengthen companies. What is needed is a drastic simplification of EU legislation, the completion of the internal market and more trade agreements.

The EU-Commission launches public consultations on possible countermeasures in response to Trump's introduction of “reciprocal” tariffs and tariffs on cars and car parts from the EU.

The VDMA informs its members twice a year about the development of the chemical industry in Brazil, China, France, Turkey, the USA and the United Kingdom.

Exclusive information and networking event for VDMA members and exhibitors of the trade fairs automatica, LASER World of PHOTONICS, and World of QUANTUM – June 26, 2025, 10:30 AM at automatica 2025.

In April 2025, 329 new firefighting vehicles were registered in Germany.

The new Trump tariffs are not only raising costs for the machinery sector, but creating confusion and uncertainty among manufacturers that export to the United States.

The foreign trade department informs you about the latest developments in exports and supports you in accessing difficult markets. We support your international activities with offices worldwide and practical information.

In our quarterly report, we provide you with information on India's macroeconomic development, as well as detailed information on the manufacturing industry and individual sectors with a particular focus on machinery and equipment.

Numerous VDMA member companies will be exhibiting at this year's international trade fair for process flows. A list of participating companies can be found here.

With an update every two months, which is exclusively available for download to VDMA member companies, we provide you with up-to-date information on German exports of water and wastewater technology.

From August 28, 2025, many products in India will require a market access mark. The VDMA India webinar with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) provides an overview.

In light of Trump’s tariffs, analysts highlight ASEAN’s risks from trade tensions but remain optimistic about the region's resilience. Singapore’s semiconductor industry stays cautious, exporters diversify suppliers and customers amid uncertainties.

From 7-11th April Oliver Wack from VDMA Foreign Trade visited Japan. The main topic was to prepare VDMA President's Bertram Kawlath's visit to Japan in September.

The calls for tenders for a 3rd tranche 2025 in the BMWK market development program have been published online on the website of the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA).

The webinar on May 20, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., is the first in a series of events organized by the Agency for Business and Economic Development (AWE), VDMA e.V. and Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI).

The Shanghai-Germany Manufacturing Industry Exchange Dialogue was held on April 1, 2025, at Hannover Messe, co-organized by the Shanghai Municipal Government and VDMA.

"Navigate the Future of the 'Beverage' Industry" - drinktec Day & Press Conference is successfully held

New tariffs for European goods in trade with the USA.

VDMA has met with the EU Member States, the EU-Commission and the EU-Parliament to campaign for the eDeclaration. If adopted, this would be an important first step towards reducing bureaucracy.

More and more companies are showing interest in participating in trade fairs in Asia and the Middle East.

In March 2025, 282 new fire fighting vehicles were registered in Germany.

The Hermes Annual Report for Export Credit Guarantees 2024 has been published. The figures show how relevant the protection of export receivables against crises is.

The EU is right to keep a cool head in response to US President Donald Trump's punitive tariffs. An open trade war would serve no one. However, the EU should use the momentum for new free trade agreements.

Sentiment in the mechanical engineering sector improved somewhat at the start of 2025, but remains very mixed. A majority of companies do not expect slight growth again until 2026.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides comprehensive employment and wage statistics. In our interactive report, we clearly present data by industry, occupational group and location.

In turbulent times, good trade relations are just as important as innovation. With the guest country Canada and the focus on the use of artificial intelligence in production, Hannover Messe 2025 has set the right signals.

The USA is much more than just a major sales market for industry in Europe. The change in trade policy under Donald Trump is hitting companies all the harder. Europe must now show unity and strength - in every respect.

VDMA has conducted an initial analysis of the Mercosur agreement. This Free Trade Agreement is an important signal against isolationism and in favor of open markets in the current tense geopolitical situation.

In economically difficult times, the VDMA supports its members with valuable information and personal advice. Together we will find the right course and strengthen the resilience of the companies.

EU machinery and equipment manufacturing companies currently rate their competitive position as worse than the long-term average. This is particularly true to companies based in Germany.

The blanket punitive tariffs announced by Donald Trump will harm producers and consumers in both regions - and will exacerbate rather than resolve trade conflicts.

Exclusively for members, the specialist department for water and wastewater technology provides a new information service with its publication "Marketplace Water and Wastewater Technology".

India's Interim Union Budget for 2024 projects a reduction in the revised fiscal deficit and a decline in inflation. These key economic indicators signal a promising future for the Indian economy, even amidst global economic uncertainties.

In February, order books in the mechanical engineering sector filled up unexpectedly strongly by 8% in real terms. Part of this growth was due to large-scale plant business and part to component business.

The US government's tariff policy could result in a 4% drop in production by Japanese car manufacturers.

The machinery industry is calling for a thorough state reform in Germany to increase industrial competitiveness. The EU, too, must get the economic development in Europe back on track.

The mechanical engineering industry in Brazil will benefit from the simplification of certificates of origin through self-certification in Mercosur.

China’s Two Sessions 2025 spotlight a bold industrial shift—AI, 6G, digitalization, and smart manufacturing are set to reshape the machinery sector in the coming years.

Increasing trade barriers, sanctions and isolation - anyone wanting to do business internationally these days is confronted with high hurdles and conditions in many places.

What impact will tariff decisions have on transatlantic relations or the global agricultural machinery trade? And how will the EU's change of course away from the Green Deal affect our industry?

Business relationships with South Africa are already well established among many VDMA members.

The VDMA supports ways to make sustainable use of market opportunities in Ukraine and for Ukraine.

"Poland is a real dairy country. More than six million cattle are currently kept between the Carpathian Mountains and the Baltic Sea".

Tariffs of 25 percent on the import of cars and car parts have been announced. They are due to come into force starting May 3.

Mitsubishi Corporation plans to build data center on the site of the former JFE blast furnace with an investment volume of JPY 150 billion (EUR 937 million).

The last General Assembly was very well attended - a total of 29 members were present at the VDMA in Frankfurt.

Singapore’s Budget 2025 presents significant opportunities for businesses to reduce costs, invest in workforce development, and adopt digital innovations.

Malaysia and Singapore launched the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) in January 2025. The new economic initiative aims to drive significant business growth with as many as 50 projects and create 20,000 skilled jobs.

In February, the ASEAN manufacturing purchasing managers' index (PMI) rose to 51.5, the highest in seven months, from 50.4 in January. This marks the highest reading since July 2023.

In 2026 IFAT Munich is calling to Munich for a new term! Interested exhibitors can still register until April 30th, 2025.

The VDMA is intensifying its activities in sub-Saharan Africa and is looking forward to new support in the team of the foreign trade department

New orders for machinery in Japan fell by 3.5% in January compared to the previous month, while the order backlog reached a record high due to a shortage of labor and transportation capacity.

On March 12, the USA imposed tariffs of 25 percent on all steel and aluminum products, including some steel and aluminum derivatives. This affects the mechanical and plant engineering sector, especially the spare parts business.

Despite a slight decline in machinery exports to Kazakhstan in 2024, the German mechanical engineering industry remains confident

In 2024, machinery exports from Europe to the Southeast Asian region will still not be able to match the levels of the years before coronavirus and will even record further losses.

AUMA has published a guideline for the uniform calculation of greenhouse gases when organizing trade fairs.

AUMA has completely revised and revised its publication "Successful trade fair participation - from initial planning to lasting impact".

In response to the imposition of tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from the EU, the EU-Commission has initiated countermeasures against imports from the US. This included a consultation on EU countermeasures for US exports.

Benefit from the comprehensive expertise of the VDMA at the Hannover Messe! Take the opportunity for personal expert discussions with VDMA employees from various fields.

No recovery at the start of the year - order intake continues to decline, sales develop positively.

Information on production volume, employment development and foreign trade data, as of March 2025

The machinery and equipment industry in Europe can hold its own in the face of increasingly tough global competition - if the promised relief comes and companies push ahead with their transformation.

In 2024, price-adjusted production output in the EU mechanical and plant engineering sector contracted by 7 percent compared to the previous year.

Since March 17, 2025, the notification procedure for employees posted to Switzerland has been handled exclusively via the EasyGov portal. The previous application for reporting short stays was deactivated on March 14, 2025.

After a dry spell of three years, the signs are pointing to growth for the industry.

In February 2025, 243 new fire fighting vehicles were registered in Germany.

Last year, agricultural machinery and tractor manufacturers in Germany recorded a noticeable double-digit decline in sales.

Which trade associations, departments, forums and working groups are taking part this year? You can find this and more information on the planned events and key topics in the network flyer.

The EU is aiming to conclude a free trade agreement with India this year. It would be an important step towards improving the competitive position of industry, also with regard to China.

The largest energy-related trade fair, SMART ENERGY WEEK, took place from February 19 to 21 at Tokyo Big Sight. Germany was strongly represented with three pavilions.

New orders in the machinery sector will increase in 2024 for the first time in two years, driven by semiconductors, electronics industries and others

The Japanese car manufacturers Honda and Nissan have broken off talks about a merger. However, the restructuring of the Japanese automotive industry is expected to continue in the future.

The Japanese electronics company Pioneer Corporation has opened a new R&D base in Wetzlar, Germany.

Nominal GDP in Japan in 2024 amounted to 609.3 trillion JPY (EUR 3.9 trillion) - an increase of 2.9% compared to the previous year and thus a record high.

President Trump is calling for reciprocal trade and tariffs – what impact might this have on machinery and equipment manufacturers and transatlantic trade?

With a liaison office for the ASEAN region, the VDMA aims to support European mechanical engineering in the region. Tiffany Ang has been representing the VDMA in the ASEAN region based in Singapore since January 6, 2025.

Current forecasts, key figures and background information on agricultural framework conditions, business and market development - worldwide, in Europe and in Germany.

The USA and China remain top of the mechanical engineering export rankings in 2024. Overall, exports fell by a nominal 5 percent to just under 200 billion euros.

As an IFR member association, VDMA Robotics+Automation invites service robot manufacturers to participate in the IFR service robot statistics. Participants receive valuable market data free of charge.

The partner country of Hannover Messe 2025 is Canada: The country is attractive for the European mechanical and plant engineering industry and offers significant growth potential.

The VDMA has published its first quarterly economic report for the US market for plant and machinery.

Despite strong international business in December - the year 2024 closes with a minus, as feared

The EU Commission has launched a survey on the provision of construction and installation services. Take part!

The Hermes package of measures from January 2025 is also intended to offer the supplier industry more opportunities on the export markets. The VDMA explains what is important.

The Hermes package of measures from January 2025 improves the forfaiting guarantee. LBBW reports the first financing with this cover.

The Hermes package of measures from January 2025 offers applicants a German Footprint concept if they do not only export German value added.

The mechanical engineering sector is feeling the effects of the recession - yet companies only reduced their workforce by just under 1% in 2024. Even now, the core workforce is to be retained as much as possible.

Many VDMA members are considering investing in the US market for the first time or deepening existing investments. We invite you to an interactive conference in presence on March 25, 2025.

An industry expert from the Africa Business Network in South Africa identifies specific business opportunities for German suppliers for a circular economy. One focus is also on projects in the water industry.

In January 2025, 201 new fire fighting vehicles were registered in Germany.

English newsletter service of the Foreign Trade Department for VDMA members: The most important information at a glance. Subscribe now!

The VDMA-wide economic survey for Q4 2024, which was conducted in January, revealed the following picture for the textile machinery industry

The Chinese government has taken countermeasures in response to the US government's announcement that it will impose an additional 10 percent tariff on all imports from China.

The establishment of a European private company would make it easier for companies to set up companies in other EU Member States under simple conditions and thus benefiting from a harmonized set of rules.

Texprocess is strengthening its offering for the upcoming edition from 21 to 24 April 2026 with a restructured hall layout, additional product areas and the expansion of content formats.

The VDMA has addressed extensive demands to politicians. What do the parties think? Our overview shows the extent to which the mechanical and plant engineering industry is taken into account in the programs for the federal election on February 23, 2025.

The study compares the salary structures of 80 key positions in manufacturing and business-related services across the Czech Republic and its regions.

The overall result for orders in 2024 in the mechanical and plant engineering sector is disappointing. The wait for a turnaround continues. Better framework conditions in Germany are an important aspect of this.

Machinery new orders revised upwards for the first time in 8 months, supported by investment in decarbonization and AI

The EU and the Philippines announced the resumption of trade negotiations in 2024. VDMA prepared a document with the most important demands for the negotiating teams, e.g. the abolition of all tariffs.

The VDMA is calling for reliable framework conditions for growth and competitiveness in Germany in 2025. Together we can master the challenges of the future. You can find the details in the economic policy positions for 2025.

The German government wants to boldly reform export promotion. SMEs in particular can benefit from this - if the banks go along with it.

The mood in the mechanical engineering sector remains tense, with one in three companies rating their own situation as poor. Business prospects are a small ray of hope - but reforms are urgently needed.

The EU is committed to a more competitive Europe. A strategy for European industry must not get lost in individual aids, but must fundamentally strengthen Europe as a business location.

VDMA welcomes the announcement by the EU and Malaysia to resume their trade negotiations. Tariffs and non-tariff barriers in the machinery sector could then be removed.

From July 30 to August 6, 2025, the VDMA is offering a trip to Australia for agricultural machinery manufacturers in cooperation with DLG.

After stagnating at a level of between 400 and 500 million euros in the last decade, German mechanical engineering exports to Kazakhstan have almost doubled to 900 million euros in 2023.

Stagnation at a low level: The September phenomenon did not bring the hoped-for turnaround.

The agricultural machinery industry is focusing on climate-friendly diesel fuel alternatives in order to sustainably minimize exhaust emissions in agriculture.

The motto of Interschutz 2026 is "Safeguarding Tomorrow". In September 2024, the Advisory Board met in presence with the organizers of DMAG.

Overview of the VDMA's foreign trade policy activities in 2024 - a review of the year

The mechanical engineering sector is calling for a reform of export financing to strengthen competitiveness and promote a level playing field.

PTC ASIA is the most important trade fair for drive and fluid technology in the Far East - and has been for decades. Secure your last places now! Registrations will be accepted until the end of July.

In December 2024, 317 new fire fighting vehicles were registered in Germany.

A small ray of hope in orders from eurozone countries in November does not change the overall weather situation: orders in the mechanical engineering sector are not gaining momentum.

The agricultural technology industry is an important enabler of the agribusiness of the future. This is because it makes it possible to harmonize economy and ecology. We will be demonstrating this at the Green Week on three sustainability paths.

Even though incoming orders increased slightly in the first quarter of the year, forecasts for the mechanical engineering sectors remain cautious. The uncertainty is too great - especially with regard to the USA's customs policy.

From May 19 to 23, 2025, the AHK Portugal is organizing a business initiation to Portugal on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection. It is part of the market development program for SMEs.

From March 31 to April 4, 2025, trAIDe GmbH is conducting a business initiation to Colombia on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection. It is part of the market development program for SMEs.

Deutsche Messe AG provides active support in making travel arrangements and booking accommodation for trade fairs in Hanover. The various offers are bundled at get2fairs.com.

The VDMA Dubai meeting was characterized by a positive mood - driven by current business as well as business expectations. Nevertheless, there are challenges.

7th edition of bauma Conexpo India offers a strong platform. VDMA members remain confident about the Indian market and export opportunities from Indian production.

Evaluation of the current "Business Climate Survey China" of our China office for fall 2024 - overall market and electrical automation sector.

The U.S. Census Bureau has published new figures from the industry statistics by region. They provide information on turnover, value added and the number of employees, among other things. We present this data clearly in an interactive report.

The EU Commission agrees to postpone the Deforestation Regulation by one year following massive criticism.

The EU Commission has published the Combined Nomenclature (commodity codes) for the year 2025. There are only a few changes for mechanical engineering.

For the orientation of VDMA member companies, the Association of Process Engineering Machinery and Equipment has created a new data sheet on foreign trade in machinery with Poland.

In October 2024, orders in the process engineering sector were significantly lower than in the previous year. Turnover, on the other hand, exceeded the previous year's figure.

Heavy seas and no calm in sight: the mechanical engineering industry expects a decline in production and a slight reduction in jobs in 2025. A political turnaround is needed to strengthen the industry.

In November, the VDMA conducted an international end customer survey to shed light on the economic situation of agricultural businesses in the most important export markets.

Anyone who needs a spare part is in a hurry. The part number is not always immediately to hand, especially when installed or under operating conditions.

In November 2024, 304 new fire fighting vehicles were registered in Germany.

The EU-Mercosur agreement must now become a reality as quickly as possible. It is an important signal against isolationism and must not be called into question again in the EU Council of Ministers and the European Parliament.

Service providers offer discounted conditions - exclusively for VDMA members.

The EU's free trade agreement with Mercosur must finally be signed at the summit in Uruguay. This could save the EU alone 4 billion euros a year in customs duties.

Order books in the mechanical engineering sector remain weak, with 9% fewer orders booked in October than in the previous year. Customers remain hesitant to make new investments

India remains an attractive growth market for the mechanical engineering sector. Numerous local German companies are looking to expand, according to the latest VDMA survey.

The new EU Commission can begin its work on December 1. Europe's industry now needs quick decisions to strengthen its competitiveness.

Current forecasts, key figures and background information on general agricultural conditions, business and market development - worldwide, in Europe and in Germany.

VDMA supports companies in opening up international markets by participating in trade fairs, among other things. In addition to its own trade fair stands in Germany, it offers companies the opportunity to exhibit at group stand (German Pavilions).

The EU-Commission has given the go-ahead for a single EU-wide digital declaration portal for the posting of workers. VDMA expressly welcomes this first step towards reducing bureaucracy.

The business expectations of German mechanical engineering companies in China for 2024 show little sign of improvement. The hoped-for growth will once again not be achieved.

Again and again in September: very significant swings - resulting from large-scale plant business - have had an impact on the year-to-date order intake and turnover in the process engineering sector.

310 new fire fighting vehicles were registered in Germany in October 2024.

Foreign guests face various challenges when applying for a visa and entering Germany. Inviting companies can support them.

The U.S. Department of Treasury issued the final rule restricting certain investments in the Chinese semiconductor and microelectronics, quantum computing and artificial intelligence sectors.

The order situation in the mechanical engineering sector remains weak, particularly in Germany. However, companies are also still waiting for new investment momentum in global business.

Over 30 member representatives attended the general meeting of the VDMA Fire Fighting Equipment Association at Empl.

On October 28, the Russian central bank raised the key interest rate to 21 percent. At the same time, it indicated that the interest rate could soon rise even higher. The reasons are high inflation and the overheated economy.

Regional harvest forecasts can be a decisive guideline for agricultural machinery sales. After all, satellite data makes it possible to calculate very precise forecasts - even weeks before the harvest.

This overview highlights the key differences and similarities between the trade policy of the two U.S. presidential candidates.

Since October 1, 2024, companies and self-employed persons working on temporary or mobile construction sites in Italy have been required to have a construction site driver's license. It is now also possible for foreign applicants to apply.

The situation remains tense, even though incoming orders increased in August compared to the (weak) same month last year. However, turnover fell by the same amount compared to August 2023.

The August statistics on new orders for machinery showed that new orders from the "private sector (excluding ships and electricity)" fell by 1.9% to 858.1 billion yen (5.3 billion euros) compared to the previous month.

The venue and date for the next General Assembly of the VDMA Firefighting Equipment were set at the last meeting in October 2024.

Fabiane Wahlbrink, head of VDMA Brazil, was able to expand the network for mechanical engineering at conferences and trade fairs. The hydrogen industry is just one example.

Current VDMA survey: Only 30 percent of the companies surveyed are bound by collective agreements. Companies not bound by collective agreements see too little scope for company solutions and a lack of flexibility in collective agreements.

The four states of the European Free Trade Association and India have signed a trade and economic partnership agreement. If they can do it, why can't the EU?

Discover the new image brochure for power transmission engineering. Find out about our extensive range of services: market information, trade fairs, research, technology and standardization. VDMA Power Transmission Engineering - a strong partner.

Anthony van der Ley is starting his second term as chairman of the VDMA Agricultural Machinery Association with strong support.

Find the current site plan for Interschutz 2026 here!

In September 2024, 236 new fire department vehicles were registered in Germany.

The agricultural technology industry is an important enabler of the agribusiness of the future. This is because it makes it possible to harmonize economy and ecology. Our latest annual report traces the developments of the last four years.

For many years, our trade fair calendar has served as a valuable guide for our members.

According to the latest VDMA survey, the mood and prospects in the mechanical engineering sector have deteriorated noticeably. This makes it all the more urgent for politicians to finally set the course for new growth.

The EU Commission proposes postponement of the Deforestation Regulation by one year following massive criticism.

The Western Balkans is a procurement market on our doorstep. Metal, wood and plastics processing as well as the textile industry and IT offer opportunities for nearshoring.

AUMA has now published the annual publication AUMA Trends 2024/2025 in English.

The tougher the dispute between the USA and China becomes in global trade, the greater the pressure on Europe. What will industries have to face if rules-based trade is pushed aside?

Companies from Germany will be supported with an expanded program at trade fairs abroad.

In this exclusive publication, we present Kamala Harris’s trade policy agenda and provide an assessment of the potential impact on machinery and equipment manufacturers.

In August, incoming orders in the mechanical engineering sector increased by 7% compared to the previous year. However, the upward outlier is not yet a trend reversal; special factors were responsible for the result.

The following summarizes the discussions with VDMA members' branches in Turkey and with Turkish mechanical engineering companies as well as the second meeting of VDMA members in Istanbul.

In December 2024, the EU bodies agree to postpone the start of implementation by 1 year.

On September 13, 2024, the Biden Administration released the final version of its four-year review of Section 301 tariffs, which includes sweeping tariff hikes on selected Chinese goods.

VDMA hopes for a breakthrough: a Free Trade Agreement between the EU and Indonesia can significantly advance the European mechanical engineering industry in Southeast Asia.

The deforestation regulation forces us to act.

The "Electronic Travel Authorization" (ETA) will be extended to numerous European countries from April 2025. The application is possible from 5 March 2025.

India wants to become a major economic power. The government is promoting growth with numerous measures. But locally, the paths to new business can be tortuous.

The discussion about "De-risking China" is in full swing in our industry. India is increasingly coming into focus as a growth market with high economies of scale.

Popular science publications are full of statements about the "end of oil & gas". But what is the reality?

The Mercosur states are on the move and Europe can benefit from this. That is why the EU's free trade agreement with Mercosur must finally come into force.

The situation remains critical: in July, orders in the Process Engineering sector were once again significantly lower than in the same month last year. Turnover increased slightly compared to June 2023.

For the first time in months, orders only fell in single digits in July. However, this does not yet mean a turnaround; there is a lack of impetus for new investments worldwide.

The supply of medical technology and a good supply is an important concern in the vast majority of countries worldwide. But this article sheds light on which markets are particularly interesting from the suppliers' point of view.

Hannover Messe 2025 became the stage for drive and fluid technology. In Halls 4, 5 and 6, leading companies presented their innovations for intelligent and sustainable production.

The June statistics on new orders for machinery in Japan showed that new orders from the "private sector (excluding ships and electricity)" increased by 2.1% month-on-month to 876.1 billion yen (5.4 billion euros).

Donald Trump has promised to impose new tariffs on all European imports. This and other trade policy promises are set out in an exclusive publication for members.

According to AUMA, the latest Global Exhibition Barometer published by UFI shows that the trade fair industry has emerged from the coronavirus-induced trough with record sales.

AUMA informs that visa waiting times for international exhibitors and visitors who want to participate in trade fairs in Germany are still too long in many countries.

Since 1 July 2024 work assignments in the Czech Republic must be reported via an online reporting platform. The procedure is complex and many rules are still unclear.

Mechanical engineering recorded a nominal decline in exports of 4.8% in the first half of 2024. Weak demand from Europe and China in particular weighed on exports.

Which trade fairs are of particular importance for medical technology and health tech in Germany? And at which events is the VDMA active?

Japan's real GDP growth for the second quarter (April-June) was 0.8%, converted at an annual rate of 3.1%.

Things are starting to get dramatic: in June, orders in the Process Engineering sector were also significantly lower than in the same month last year. Turnover also fell sharply compared to June 2023.

The calls for tenders for the 1st tranche 2025 of the BMWK market development program have been published online on the website of the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA).

New opportunities for companies, investors, and individuals will emerge in Brazil and abroad as the H2 policy promotes economic development, environmental protection, energy security, and international cooperation.

In July 2024, 306 new fire department vehicles were registered in Germany.

Just because of their western influence, Americans seem culturally close to us Germans. But the reality is more complicated. Where are the differences, what needs to be considered?

The industry's key figures at a glance.

Hardly any innovation topic is currently being discussed more intensively than AI - especially in the context of marketing.

The VDMA Agricultural Machinery Association anticipates extremely subdued development on the global agricultural machinery markets in 2024.

There are no signs of a turnaround in incoming orders. Orders fell significantly in June and also with a view to the first half of 2024. Germany and the euro countries in particular are weakening.

Together with other trade associations, the VDMA has signed a joint declaration on the GDPR in which we call for the risk-based approach to be reaffirmed.

We have further expanded our data offering for the USA: The new economic indicators dashboard for the USA now also includes detailed price statistics.

Share of exhibitor and visitor numbers for 2023 are above pre-corona levels for the first time again The high international share is one of the great advantages of Germany as a trade fair location.

AUMA: The Society for Voluntary Control of Fair and Exhibition Statistics (FKM) has published its report on the key trade fair figures for 2023.

AUMA annual publication "Trends 2024/2025" with current figures, data and facts on Germany as a trade fair location

High uncertainty weighs on demand for capital goods.

China's mechanical engineering industry continues to catch up, products from the Far East are improving and are almost always cheaper. But China's industry is also benefiting from subsidies across the board. Results of a new VDMA study.

That hurts: in May, orders in the process engineering sector were also significantly lower than in the same month last year. Only the increase in turnover compared to May 2023 is positive.

The mood in the mechanical engineering sector has deteriorated, even with a view to the year as a whole. According to the VDMA economic survey, investments will not increase again until 2025.

Chinese companies now have a global presence and dominate some global markets

Applicants from NRW must in future submit their application to the Visa Center in Frankfurt am Main

There is a growing tendency not to include full tariff liberalization in EU Free Trade Agreements. This is unacceptable for the machinery sector.

China's textile and clothing exports show slight growth. Weak economy weighs on textile machinery manufacturers.

"Celebration of Modern Agriculture on the National Mall", or "Ag on the Mall" for short, presents modern agricultural technology in Washington DC.

In May, orders in the mechanical engineering sector were 27% below the previous year's figure in real terms. A large part of the decline can be attributed to a base effect, but the result also reflects a continuing weakness in investment.

In this compilation of GTAI articles from 2024 on the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, life science and pharmaceutical sectors, you will find the markets and articles in chronological order.

The VDMA Business Survey Q1/2025 ran from March 18 to 28, 2025 and received almost 1240 responses from 940 companies. The mood has brightened slightly. This is a snapshot in view of the latest tariff announcements by the USA.

The annual PTC Pipeline Technology Conference is Germany's leading industry networking event. The technical presentations are now freely available.

In this article we want to inform you at irregular intervals about important developments in the CO2/CO market on carbon capture, transportation, storage, CCUS.

The ninth future study examines the role of carbon management as the key to achieving climate targets. It outlines opportunities and hurdles for industry and society and presents four future scenarios for 2035 and beyond.

In the past financial year 2023, the agricultural machinery industry grew once again in Germany as a production location.

Under the guidance of the Chinese government, China's textile industry is committed to implementing green and low-carbon development. There are specific targets and a catalogue of measures for the period up to 2030.

The study "Battery Manufacturing 2030: Collaborating at Warp Speed" by Porsche Consulting on behalf of the VDMA provides groundbreaking insights for European companies that offer production solutions for battery manufacturing.

China still requires an official PU invitation for certain countries of origin.

Russia is trying by all means to covertly procure sanctioned goods in the EU. This creates a risk of unintentionally becoming involved in sanctions violations. VDMA Foreign Trade provides tips on how to react to this.

From June 10 to 14, 2024, AHK Poland is organizing a business initiation trip "Innovative technologies for water treatment and wastewater management to Poland.

The Liaison Office India monitors the markets in India exclusively for VDMA member companies - for the fluid power industry with a special focus on its customer sectors.

Here you will find a VDMA assessment of the market for process technology suppliers with a focus on oil & gas, LNG, biomass and H2 applications as well as information sources.

The VDMA statistics department regularly conducts flash surveys among member companies. Thanks to the lively participation of members from the process engineering machinery and equipment sector, special evaluations were possible several times.

Electronics Manufacturing Members’ Flash Survey for 2023/2024

The tips for business success in the United States have been updated. The exclusive publication for VDMA members is now available in German and English.

The Power Transmission Engineering and Fluid Power associations organize joint stands at trade fairs in Germany exclusively for member companies via VDMA Services. Abroad, we apply for so-called German Pavilions from interesting foreign markets.

In this compilation of GTAI articles from 2023 on the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, life science and pharmaceutical sectors, you will find the markets and articles in chronological order.

Salary benchmarks for selected professional positions in Chinese mechanical engineering - exclusively for members

China has developed rapidly and, as a result, undergone considerable change. This has an impact on the economic and political environment to which the machinery and plant engineering industry cannot close its eyes.

VDMA study shows need for catching up (or pent-up demand) for German financing offers

Lecture program Innovation Forum, live demos, press conference, Innovation Award

Registration for German Pavilions organised by the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs can now be made online. A one-time accreditation is required.

In the discussion about artificial food, there has recently been increasing talk of "artificial milk". Experts are talking about precision fermentation - a process similar in food technology terms to the process of brewing beer.

The economic reports for 2024 on important foreign markets in the food and packaging industry, compiled exclusively for the VDMA by gtai, are now available in German and English.

EMO Hannover 2023 to highlight promising business opportunities

Virtual event formats were prevalent during the pandemic. Virtual trade shows have failed, but many obvious impacts on trade shows have not.

Germany Trade and Invest (GTAI) provides a monthly overview of publications relevant to mechanical engineering on Africa exclusively for VDMA members.

On a monthly basis, our economic update gives a brief overview of the ecomomic situation of the construction equipment industry, e.g. order income, turnover, business climate and trade figures.

Production development is a key indicator in economic analysis. It shows the current performance of an industry. Forecasts are also often made with regard to production. VDMA economists therefore always keep a close eye on this indicator.

The Japan Construction Report is provided by the VDMA team in Tokyo. It contains news of the construction, glass and ceramics industry of Japan and is published monthly in German. The most recent report can be downloaded from this website.

Recent market information from the Indian construction and construction equipment industry are summarized in the bi-monthly report made by the VDMA team in Kolkata. The latest issue may be downloaded from this website.