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After the very weak economy in 2024, hopes are pinned on markets picking up in 2025 / Politicians must set business-friendly framework conditions

Held on 3rd to 5th September 2025 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

The BME CEE Forum offers individual matchmaking discussions, workshops and up-to-date insights into procurement strategies in 18 Central and Eastern European countries.

On September 22, 2025, the VDMA is offering a full-day face-to-face event in Frankfurt for members who want to sharpen their ASEAN strategy. Also present: Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHKs) and regional business development agencies.

Discover unbeatable insights and high-calibre networking at IBEW 2025. Join the Expert Series for cutting-edge sessions on digitalisation, construction, and sustainability. Limited tickets left - secure yours by 25 August.

The U.S. Department of Commerce added 407 new articles to the steel and aluminum lists, subject to 50-percent tariffs. Many machinery products are affected.

The recently published study "Business Opportunities in Sub-Saharan Africa - 15 Country Profiles" provides comprehensive information on the market potential in sub-Saharan African markets.

Keep up to date with the latest news from Southeast Asia with the new VDMA newsletter. Subscribe now to receive relevant regional updates every two months — exclusively for VDMA members.

Focus on the US market: The new VDMA economic report Q2/2025 shows stable developments despite political uncertainties. Now exclusively for members - with interactive charts and current economic data.

The world's largest trade fair for LNG, gas and hydrogen is returning to Milan this year. German participation with 33 exhibitors and another 20 members from DACH.

The positive experience with the annual focus country and the successful contributions from market participants, the AHKs and local associations provide the basis for this.

British Columbia is home to 1,100 mining companies, 16 operating mines and 16 of Canada's 31 critical raw materials. This makes Canada a strategically important partner for Europe's raw material supply.

On 11 July 2025, the summer meeting of the Executive Board took place at Herrenknecht AG in Schwanau.

The EU has updated the content of one of its two embargo regulations against Sudan. Among other things, two new companies have been added to the blacklist.

The EU has updated the content of two of its embargo regulations against Iran. For the third Iran embargo regulation, a completely up-to-date consolidated text version is once again available.

The calls for tenders for the 1st tranche 2026 of the BMWE market development program have been published online on the website of the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA).

As part of a political agreement with the European Commission, a new base tariff of 15 percent has been established to prevent a further escalation of retaliatory measures.

Digital, secure, and efficient. The new Entry/Exit System (EES) will replace passport stamping.

Argentina stabilizes in 2025 - Brazil benefits from this, with Brazilian cars and machinery in particular in demand. At the same time, uncertainty in trade with the USA is growing.

As a continent rich in raw materials with around 65 percent of the world's arable land and a very young population by global standards, Africa offers enormous business and growth potential for local industry.

If you want to leverage real future potential for agribusiness, especially for agricultural technology, you can no longer ignore South America.

The agreement in the customs dispute creates planning security in the short term and averts an incalculable trade war. However, the agreement also reflects the balance of power. The EU must therefore now consistently strengthen its competitiveness.

With the passage of the “Big Beautiful Bill,” Donald Trump has reached his most important goal in Congress. The sweeping tax reforms carry significant implications for VDMA member companies.

Strong participation and new priorities/Mega event with over 6,000 participants.

A politically motivated ban on exports of rare earths from China is not compatible with a trusting trade relationship. The EU must show strength towards China and take action.

On July 18, 2025, the EU published its 18th sanctions package, which also includes measures against Belarus. It includes two amending regulations. Some of the tougher sanctions are also relevant for the mechanical and plant engineering sector.

On July 18, 2025, the EU published its 18th sanctions package against Russia. The measures (2 amending regulations) all come into force on 19.07.2025. Some of the tightened sanctions are also relevant for the mechanical and plant engineering industry.

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.

5th Management Meeting for Construction Equipment and Building Material Plant Engineering hosted by Liebherr in Singapore. Market has recently grown significantly, but Chinese dominance is unbroken.

Good news for European companies: the EU's free trade agreement with Indonesia is an important success for more rules-based trade worldwide.

US punitive tariffs of 30 percent would be damaging for all parties involved, for the EU and the USA. Investments and reindustrialization would be slowed down.

Market information forms the basis for many business decisions. With directly collected data and a wealth of secondary information, the Valves Association offers comprehensive know-how on industry and market developments.

Incoming orders in the mechanical engineering sector fell by 9.1 % in April. - First decline in three months, the impact of the Trump administration's tariff policy still unclear.

VDMA organizes delegation trip on the occasion of Philconstruct in Manila in November 2025. Philippine construction industry benefits from infrastructure programs and expects strong growth.

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 the USA and with key data on the water sector in the USA.

Incoming orders in May were a positive surprise - albeit on a weak prior-year basis. Overall, companies have recorded a small increase in orders so far this year, but global uncertainty remains high.

The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), which was officially agreed at the beginning of 2025, is a joint project between Singapore and Malaysia with the aim of exploiting economic synergies between the two countries.

This overview aims to support awareness, planning, and participation in relevant trade fairs and exhibitions across the VDMA subsectors and groups.

In China and the US, machinery and equipment manufacturing has been growing for several months. In most EU countries, fewer machinery and equipment products are being produced than a year ago.

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.

The manufacturer of strapping and end-of-line packaging technology, expands global footprint one strap at a time with grand opening of second facility in Malaysia

VDMA America hosts its first member-exclusive Executive Roundtable in the United States on Wednesday, July 16, in the Houston area.

On 4 June 2025, Haver & Boecker Latinoamericana in São Paulo hosted the Brazil Management Meeting of the Construction-Equipment and Plant Engineering and Mining & Minerals Trade Associations organized by VDMA Brazil.

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.

On 17 June 2025, the meeting of the Steering Committee Asia took place at Wirtgen GmbH in Windhagen and was a major networking event. Various important topics were discussed.

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.

On May 29, 2025, more than 50 industry experts met at the VDMA China Management Meeting at ebm-papst in Shanghai to exchange views on current topics such as intelligent manufacturing and export controls.

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.

The publication provides an overview of CECE's activities. It shows the topics with which the CECE is involved at European and international level.

The new Chinese export controls on rare earths and some products made from them are increasingly becoming a massive problem. China cannot keep up with issuing the export licenses that are now required.

We always report on changes to major embargoes or embargo changes with significant relevance for mechanical and plant engineering at short notice. Here is an overview of less relevant embargo changes since January 2025.

The tabular VDMA overview "Country-related embargoes" makes it easy to find out which countries are currently subject to EU embargo measures and what the current status of the embargo texts is.

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.

Saudi Arabia is currently 20-30 percent self-sufficient in food. The country is only self-sufficient in some vegetables.

Incoming orders in the mechanical engineering sector fell by 6% in real terms in April compared to the previous year. An expected setback, given the uncertainty caused by US tariff policy.

For two days, experts gathered in Würzburg for the Building Materials Plant Summit to discuss markets, technologies, and climate goals. Both research and industry agree that change is possible—and necessary.

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.

With effect from May 29, 2025, the EU has largely, but not completely, lifted its sanctions against Syria. This is in response to the change in US policy towards Syria announced by President Trump in Saudi Arabia.

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

Companies can register for the German Pavilion at Excon in Bangalore until August 9. India's largest trade fair will take place for the 12th time in December. India is the world's most dynamic market.

Despite a recovery at the start of the year, the outlook for China remains worrying. Electrification is driven forward on a big scale. VDMA met at Herrenknecht's impressive TBM plant in Guangzhou.

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.

An industry expert of the Business Network Africa in Egypt identifies concrete business opportunities for German suppliers in the water industry.

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.

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 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.

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.

At 10.3 per cent of German export market share, Guinea recorded the highest increase in the 2023/2024 fiscal year.

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.

The first quarter of 2025 resulted in an overall increase in orders of 4% - the first positive quarterly balance of orders in three years. March also closed with a pleasing increase in orders of 4%.

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.

Budget 2025: Tech Industry bats for deeptech fund, tweaks in safe harbor rules ‘threshold

Planned investment of around Rs.50,000 crore (€ 5.22 billion) over next five years of inland waterways: Union Port, Shipping, and Waterways

India ready to collaborate openly to build inclusive global energy future: Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas

Start of successful association networking. Despite difficult circumstances, bauma 2025 attracts its first visitors from Ukraine - in search of strong German partners in mechanical engineering.

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.

What challenges do machine manufacturers face when exporting to Asia - and how does the VDMA provide support?

Intercompany license agreements between the parent company in Germany/Europe and the subsidiary in China are of considerable importance in practice.

New tariffs for European goods in trade with the USA.

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.

From 23 to 28 March 2025, the AHK Southern Africa organized a business initiation trip to South Africa on behalf of the BMWK and in cooperation with the VDMA Textile Machinery Association and SBS systems for business solutions GmbH.

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.

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

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.

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan still have many good projects up their sleeves. Kazakhstan plans to expand its role in the global production of rare metals and earths.

Beyond the political noise, USA remains the largest market for German machinery export.

This year, Germany will once again be represented with a joint booth at the two glass industry trade fairs in Mumbai.

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

The economic outlook for the region remains good, although it appears that sales of mining equipment declined in 2024 compared to 2023.

How are exports to Africa and the Middle East developing? Which are the largest local markets, which product groups are most in demand and what are the most important supplier countries? In our theme publication you will find facts, figures and data on foreign trade with Africa and the Middle East from the perspective of the mechanical and plant engineering sector.

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.

The VDMA Mining & Minerals delegation to China in March 2025 began its trip with a visit to the JINGANG Group in Jinan.

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".

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).

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.

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

In Central Asia and the South Caucasus, construction is booming thanks to government investment. At the same time, Ukraine needs more than 500 billion euros for reconstruction over the next 10 years - an enormous potential for mechanical engineering.

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.

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.

The traditional India Day on bauma Wednesday will be dedicated to market prospects of the construction equipment industry in India. This time, one focus topic will be localization of components.

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.

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

The United States is the largest export market and the most important location for the German mechanical engineering industry. The chart pack provides information on the structure and development of the machinery market.

The EU's 16th sanctions package against Russia and Belarus has been somewhat lost in the excitement surrounding US President Trump. But there are new risks and details that VDMA members have to deal with.

The quarterly report "Machinery & Equipment in China" contains relevant key figures such as production, sales, profit and investment trends in the local mechanical engineering industry as well as important customer industries in 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.

Manufacturers of industrial valves are facing new challenges in 2025. So far, foreign business has provided positive impetus, but now empty order books and uncertain forecasts are dampening the mood.

Turnover in the building valves industry will stagnate in 2024, and foreign business will also remain weak. A slight recovery is expected in 2025. But above all, the industry needs better location conditions.

The right conditions are crucial for renewed growth. bauma 2025, the world's leading trade fair for the sector, will provide the impetus.

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

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.

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.

Sign up via MyVDMA – and receive clear, relevant updates to help you navigate international trade.

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

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.

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.

We have updated our interactive report on foreign affiliates.

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

Every year, more than 600 VDMA members supply process technology components and systems to 150 countries around the world. Here you will find the current process technology trade fair lists.

The implementation of reporting obligations for work assignments in Europe is a major challenge for many VDMA member companies.

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.

At the end of 2024, Switzerland and the EU managed to redefine their relations. It is questionable whether the necessary referendum in Switzerland will accept the rules.

VDMA Construction Equipment and VDMA Mining & Minerals leverage diplomatic linkages for market expansion.

glasspex/glasspro 2025: Opening with VDMA Symposium

Due to the positive development tendencies in India, we have decided to establish our own management meetings for the Indian market.

The 27th International Congress on Glass (ICG) will take place in Kolkata from January 20–24, 2025.

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.

For the guidance of member companies, the VDMA Process Equipment and Machinery Association has updated a data sheet on foreign trade in machinery with Portugal.

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

For the first time, a German Pavilion was organised, which was prominently showcased with 19 exhibitors and met with great interest from trade fair visitors.

Exclusively for our members: the March issue of the India Report.

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

VDMA member companies see the US market as an opportunity and are cautiously optimistic about the coming years. Many are building on good or even very good competitiveness, but this must be defended.

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.

These were some of the topics discussed at the meeting of the Steering Committee Asia which took place at Zeche Zollverein before the Industry Meeting Mining & Minerals 2024.

Rio Tinto received a delegation of 14 member companies from VDMA Mining & Minerals from 25 to 27 November 2024. The Australian mining group is in the starting blocks to mine one of the world's largest lithium deposits.

Production conditions in Germany were the main topic of discussion at the Executive Board meeting on 21 November 2024 at Zollverein colliery.

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.

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.

Asia's leading trade fair sees a brilliant comeback with record exhibitor and visitor numbers. Industry sentiments defy subdued outlook for the Chinese market.

The economic data from China offers little cause for optimism: domestic consumption is growing slowly. The economic recovery is taking longer than expected. In the real estate sector, there is no hope of a short-term recovery in prices.

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.

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

The valve industry is looking back on a challenging year ahead of the VALVE WORLD EXPO 2024. As a driving force for innovations and trending topics, the trade fair can set the course for future growth.

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.

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

A weak global economy and many structural problems at home are weighing on the export business in the mechanical engineering sector. Exports fell by a good 5 percent in the first nine months.

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 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.

The U.S. government has issued a notice of proposed rulemaking that would prohibit the importation of vehicles equipped with Chinese or Russian hardware or software.

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.

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.

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 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.

India is an important growth market for the European mechanical engineering industry. At the same time, India is one of the last high-duty countries in the mechanical engineering sector. A free trade agreement is therefore urgently needed.

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.

The world’s largest mining exhibition, MINExpo 2024, concluded on a high note, drawing an impressive 45,000 attendees.

As part of the federal government's market development program, a delegation trip to Argentina took place from 7 to 11 October 2024. The focus was on the extraction and processing of lithium.

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

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.

At the meeting of the construction equipment section during the 2024 general assembly, members took a detailed look at the economic situation.

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.

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.

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

India has established itself as one of the up-and-coming markets for the European mechanical and plant engineering industry.

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.

In 2024, German machinery exports to Latin America increased by 0.8% - after three previous years of strong growth. The Chart Pack provides facts and figures on the market.

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

Geopolitical tensions dampen short-term business development

The customers of the VDMA Mining & Minerals members are located on all 5 continents. Accordingly, we offer regular forums in steering committees to exchange information on the development of the markets there.

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

On behalf of the VDMA Germany Trade and Invest (gtai) publishes reports on the construction industry of selected markets.

Imports of European construction machinery and mining equipment to Brazil grew by 13 per cent and 22 per cent respectively in 2023.

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.

On 17 May 2023, the Brazil Management Meeting of the Construction and Mining trade associations took place in Sao Paulo.

With an update that is exclusively available to VDMA member companies for download, we provide you with up-to-date information on exports of water and wastewater technology from Germany.

Development of German exports of mechanical engineering/process engineering machinery and apparatus, country shares, most important machinery supplier countries incl. goods shares, EU exports

Saudi Arabia's state-owned companies are vehemently calling on their suppliers to invest in the country. Each day 5 to 6 factories take up production.

The CECE Annual Economic Report reports on the macroeconomic situation, the development of the construction industry and the key market segments of the European construction equipment industry.

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.

Glass South America, the most important trade fair for the glass industry in Latin America, will take place in Sao Paulo from June 12 to 15, 2024.

In this member information of the Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association you will find an overview of the services offered by the VDMA in the area of markets and economy.

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

On 14 November, the Latin America Steering Committee of the Construction Machinery and Building Material Plants Association took place online.

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

With 76 participants from the Indian glass producing and processing industry, the VDMA Forum Glass Technology organised a successful technical symposium on the day before glasspex India.

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.

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

Everything you need to know about worldwide sales, exports and imports

VDMA Foreign Trade offers you comprehensive support for your foreign business in uncertain times. Wondering how to do it?

The economic reports for 2025 on important foreign markets in the food and packaging industry, compiled exclusively for the VDMA by gtai, are now available in German and English language.

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

Current information, analyses and events on the African market in the VDMA Foreign Trade Newsletter.

The VDMA Foreign Trade newsletter offers you topics relevant to mechanical engineering and event information. More about our offer here in the video.

VDMA members visit Schwing Stetter India in Cheyyar. Construction industry in India is experiencing a significant upswing. Conditions are right for strong expansion of local production.

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.

Africa is in the focus of politics and offers the economy many opportunities. In order for German interests and companies to survive in competition with China, among others, the VDMA is calling for adjustments from policymakers.

Short-term work assignments in the UK are possible without a visa on the basis of a purchase or leasing contract. Otherwise a visa is required.

The EU and U.S. should finally bury the hatchet on this half-decade-long trade dispute that has triggered uncertainty and increased costs for manufacturers in both markets.

Stay successful in a volatile market: VDMA offers an interactive report on European business climate indicators. Follow the developments of your most important European target markets and customer industries at a glance and make informed decisions based on current data.

There are many reasons for European companies to think about diversification of supply chains, production sites and sales markets. Indonesia is increasingly coming into focus in the machinery and plant engineering sector.

What are the effects of the IRA on the American market and what are the consequences for the European mechanical and plant engineering industry? Current VDMA publication provides an overview.

Updated edition 2023 is available.

The newsletter "Afrika aktuell" is published four times a year with main focus on developments and projects in the field of food production.

The global mechanical and plant engineering industry reached a new record high in 2021. In euro terms, around 15% more machines were sold than in the previous year. China cracked the 1 trillion euro mark.

Travel to Russia is possible, but increasingly security considerations must be taken into account.

VDMA regularly generates data sheets with important indicators for its members. Raw data from various sources are processed for these. The latest data are provdided in our statistics database.

Learn more about our statistics at VDMA Robotics + Automation.

ICUnet and Inhouse Mobility now offer special conditions - exclusively for VDMA members

Since the Arab Spring in 2011, Egypt has undergone a sometimes tumultous, but overall dynamic economic development.

VDMA member companies consider different strategies to minimize decoupling risks in both markets. The full report is available for download.

Up-to-date information and event tips in the VDMA Foreign Trade newsletter.

Southeastern Europe encompasses many different markets - VDMA Foreign Trade provides information

Kenya ranks among the top three economies in sub-Saharan Africa, far behind Nigeria and South Africa, with a GDP of $110 billion (2021).

VDMA Foreign Trade supports and accompanies member companies in expanding foreign sales into future markets with potential.

Current information, analyses and events on the markets of Eastern Europe and Central Asia in the VDMA Foreign Trade newsletter.

Up-to-date information, analyses and events on the Japanese market in the VDMA Foreign Trade Newsletter.

Up-to-date information, analyses and events on the Indian market in the VDMA Foreign Trade Newsletter.

The starting signal has been given for the new series "Africa - Market in Focus". The first issue provides a concise overview of business in South Africa.

The current report deals with urban supply systems.

The foreign trade department's information service on the USA, Canada and Mexico. Subscribe now!

The VDMA Foreign Trade team keeps an eye on business opportunities in Western Europe/EU and Southeast Europe.

Up-to-date information on doing business with Iran.

Here you can find information about the modules "Foreign trade in machinery (annual values)" and "German, EU27 and UK foreign trade in machinery (monthly values)" of the VDMA statistics database.

What is important to service customers in the most important sales countries of the mechanical engineering industry, and what is not? The Global Service study helps to identify regional preferences and to adapt services locally.

Official platform provides bundled and free information on Africa business.

Not only since the pandemic has the mechanical engineering industry been faced with the challenge of opening up new countries and markets. The Foreign Trade team will provide you with up-to-date information relevant to mechanical engineering.

Photovoltaic equipment manufacturers expect sales increase for the second half of 2021. Incoming orders slightly lower in first quarter of 2021. China remains most important export market.

China is aiming for technological supremacy in various industrial fields by 2035. Moreover, China wants to assert this position not only locally but also internationally.

VDMA Foreign Trade supports you and your export business. We prepare topics relevant to mechanical engineering for you: up-to-date and easy to understand.

We regularly publish an overview of projects in the MENA region.

Up-to-date information, analyses and events on the markets of Arabia, North Africa and Türkiye in the VDMA Foreign Trade Newsletter.

The Egyptian Customs Administration has significantly increased the costs for using the new electronic customs system "NAFEZA" with effect from 14.10.2021.

The VDMA eNewsletter Japan provides information on economic developments in Japan.

Get informed about current developments in India.

Get informed about what's happening in China

The VDMA offers events on current foreign trade topics, on the web and live on site.

VDMA Foreign Trade advises you with regard to international markets. In addition, there are various offers from the federal and state governments that support the development of international markets.

Follow the activities of VDMA Foreign Trade and stay up to date.

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.

The VDMA's office in Brussels sees itself as a bridge between industry and EU policy.

Together with partner banks and the local German Chambers of Commerce, DEG is offering "German Desks". The service is available for SME German companies and their local trading partners. The particular needs of German firms and their local partners are handled at the office by a bank employee who operates in both languages and cultures.

Exclusive country reports for VDMA members to monitor developments in the automotive industry and its suppliers, provided by VDMA Plastics and Rubber Machinery Association

More and more VDMA members want to find out about the structure and economic situation of their customers or potential partners in China. The VDMA offices in China have taken up this demand and now offer a corresponding service via the local VDMA service company.

The revision of the tips brochure on doing business in China is now available. It contains highlights on the most important aspects of trading with China and at the same time links them to the respective experts in the VDMA.

The federal government has promised the German economy a wide range of aid in order to mitigate the damage of the pandemic in the best possible way.

The EU and Mexico reached on 17 January 2025 a new agreement on the trade pillar, which is part of the Global Agreement between the EU and Mexico. This was necessary after Mexico changed its energy framework.

The VDMA has compiled an "Oil & Gas, Petrochem Market Overview Malaysia" package. The package provides an overview of the structure and key players in the Oil & Gas and Petrochemistry industry in Malaysia. It covers the onshore and offshore sectors, the gas market and the petrochemical industry. Also included is the VDMA AGENTS List for Process Technology in Malaysia & Singapore. The sources are official publications by state authorities and industry agencies as well as a trade press article from 2017.

When European companies send employees to work abroad in the EU, they are faced with a patchwork of national regulations.

The VDMA Foreign Trade team supports VDMA member companies in the internationalization of mechanical and plant engineering. We provide you with practical support in all matters relating to foreign business.

Where answers count and expertise is required: At VDMA Photovoltaik Equipment, you receive all the services the industry needs in Germany. Professional and reliable, we are the drive and backing for your company. We catch the top themes and create values for you.

How are official statistics structured? Can comments to the headings be found?

The Republic of India impresses in many ways.

China, India, Japan, USA, Brazil or Singapore: Our VDMA liaison offices abroad help you with your commitment in the most important foreign markets.