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Markets & Economy
How is mechanical engineering developing in the age of global value chains? Where do your competitors come from? What support is available for market development? What regulations must be observed when exporting? What needs to be considered when deploying employees and regarding visas for foreign guests? Together we will find answers to your questions.

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

Our expert and focus topics

Our expert and focus topics
Statistics database
The VDMA statistics database offers all VDMA member companies fast and convenient access to economic information on all aspects of mechanical engineering. The use of the VDMA Order Intake and Sales Statistics Germany is exclusively reserved for those companies that participate in the survey.
Economic Development & Business Situation
The economic cycle plays a significant role in almost every area of the economy. After all, it plays a key role in determining the well-being of companies and employees. In fact, it is particularly relevant in the mechanical engineering sector. After all, it plays a key role in determining the well-being of companies and employees in the mechanical engineering sector.
The United States
The USA remains a key market for the German engineering sector. It is our biggest export market and investment location outside Europe. Local standards, complex tax laws and legal liability are just some of the challenges that new market entrants often have to deal with.
Global markets
The world is changing fast - what was good practice yesterday may not be good practice tomorrow. The VDMA helps its members to keep track of the latest developments in global markets, customs, export financing, export controls and trade policy.
Work assignments in Europe
Regarding work assignments in Europe, three completely different topics - "reporting requirements", "social law: A1 certificate" and "labor law: posting of workers directive" - are increasingly moving into the spotlight.
Europe and China
The perception of China in Germany and Europe has changed in recent years. Firstly, China is an important economic partner and also of significant importance for the German mechanical engineering sector. On the other hand, there is growing recognition at economic and political level in Germany and the European Union (EU) that the existing imbalance with China, for example in market access, is no longer acceptable.
Mechanical and plant engineering figures and charts
The statistically recordable world of mechanical and plant engineering - newly presented in interactive charts and tables. Find out about all the key economic figures for the industry and, in particular detail, about the development of the EU Single Market.
Customer industry Automotive
The machinery industry is closely linked to the automotive sector. The transition to alternative powertrains is reshaping these ties: combustion engines are losing importance, while alternative technologies are gaining relevance. Digitalization and automation are further accelerating this transformation. The machinery industry must adapt to remain a key partner to the automotive sector.
International Business Travel
Globalization necessitates travel throughout the life cycle of a machine: Sales, commissioning, assembly and maintenance. For corporate travel management, this poses an organizational challenge: Do I need a visa, and if so, which type? Which documentation is required? Which regulations apply when posting workers within the EU?

From our content

From our content
A slap in the face for Europe's mechanical engineering industry

The EU proposes tariff exemption for US products - while punitive tariffs are extended to European machinery. The EU Commission urgently needs to renegotiate; mechanical engineering products must be permanently exempted from sectoral tariffs.

ASEAN Events Update: BEX Asia 2025

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

11th BME CEE Procurement and Supply Forum in Kraków

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

Tariff deal with the United States has serious consequences

The EU Commission defends the 15 percent "tariff deal" with the USA. But more and more products are falling under the much higher steel and aluminum tariffs. The VDMA is urgently calling on the EU Commission to work towards improvements.

Mechanical engineering on the move: Strategic location impulses compact

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.

IBEW 2025: Your gateway to the BE community in the Asia-Pacific region

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.

Intralogistics affected by new US steel tariffs

When exporting cranes, industrial trucks, continuous conveyors and storage and retrieval machines to the USA, 50 percent duty will be levied on the steel content. Members are advised to check whether they are affected.

The U.S. expands Steel and Aluminum Tariffs every Four Months

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.

Tariff conflict weighs heavily on machine exports

Exports in the mechanical and plant engineering sector fell by 3.4% year-on-year in the first half of the year. The tariff conflict between the EU and the USA has left its mark. Europe is now all the more challenged to fight for open markets.

ASEAN Update - Your exclusive access to Southeast Asia

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.

K Visa Requirements & Documents – Official Guidelines

On August 7, 2025, Chinese Premier Li Qiang signed State Council Decree No. 814, officially releasing the Decision of the State Council on Amending the Regulations of China on the Administration of the Entry and Exit of Foreigners.

US economy: Second quarterly report 2025 now available

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.

Job cuts continue - pressure for reform grows

The number of employees in the mechanical engineering sector in Germany fell slightly in the first half of the year, but companies are holding on to their core workforces even in turbulent times.

"Without real reforms, there will be no economic recovery"

After 100 days of the German federal government, there is less and less sign of a spirit of optimism. Real reforms and uncomfortable decisions are needed for a turnaround in the fall - now!

China’s Equipment Renewal Policy

A Strategic Push for Industrial and Green Transformation (Part 1: Key Aspects of the Policy)

"The US tariffs are already impacts"

The "tariff agreement" between the EU and the USA is hurting companies, the supposed planning security has been bought at a high price. In the end, it will probably be American customers who pay the bill. The EU and the German government must act now.

EU Sudan sanctions updated

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.

EU sanctions on Iran updated

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 new U.S. tariffs on European imports will take effect on August 7

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.

The new EU entry procedure will start on October 12, 2025

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

Argentina back - Brazil increases exports to Mercosur

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.

"Agreement must not become the new normal"

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.

Salary Report China

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

Trump’s “Beautiful Bill” Passed in U.S. Congress

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.

VDMA America’s First Executive Roundtable at GEDA USA

VDMA America recently held their first Executive Roundtable at GEDA USA in League City, Texas, providing the American leadership of our members’ subsidiaries a valuable opportunity to network and exchange insights on key topics impacting our industry

VDMA reiterates its Call for a Fair Agreement on Tariffs

The VDMA urges the U.S. and EU to reach an agreement that ensures the certainty European machinery manufacturers need to operate in the U.S.

OECD consensus for export credits in competition with China

The OECD Consensus on Export Credits was modernized in 2023 to strengthen opportunities in global competition. However, implementation of the reform is slow. According to an analysis by the US Exim Bank, China is ahead in terms of new commitments in 2024.

"EU must show strength"

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.

18th EU sanctions package: measures also against Belarus

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.

18th EU sanctions package: measures not only against Russia

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.

Importance of the global automotive market for the German machinery in

10.1 percent of the total value-added of the machinery industry in Germany gets finally tied up in automobiles. Around 103,000 of the 1.02 million jobs in the machinery industry in Germany hence depend on the global demand for automobiles.

VDMA survey "Reporting obligations in Europe"

Members describe their practical experiences: The VDMA's third online survey on the bureaucratic hurdles involved in reporting work assignments in Europe is running from July 18 to September 18.

VDMA’s key demands in the trade negotiations

The first round of negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement between the EU and the UAE took place in June 2025. VDMA hopes that this will result in an agreement to abolish localization requirements, amongst other things.

Mechanical engineering is treading water

The business outlook in the mechanical engineering sector remains virtually unchanged, while the mood among companies remains tense. There are significant differences between the sales regions.

Global machine turnover to rise slightly in 2025

Global machine turnover is expected to grow by one percent in price-adjusted terms in 2025 compared to the previous year, with significant differences in regional dynamics.

"Strong signal in times of geopolitical tensions"

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

"Trump prolongs toxic uncertainty for companies"

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.

Bulgaria adopts the euro

The EU finance ministers have decided that Bulgaria will officially join the eurozone on January 1, 2026.

New orders in mechanical engineering in April

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.

U.S. Tariffs: the Most Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Statistical reporting obligations - Digital support services

How can statistical reporting obligations be reduced? Digital services can help you. A free webinar by the Saxon State Statistical Office in cooperation with the Chemnitz Chamber of Industry and Commerce presents the e.CORE reporting procedure.

Encouraging growth at a low level

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.

Special economic zone to strengthen cooperation

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.

Upcoming ASEAN Calendar of Key Industry Events 2025

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

Bulletin international

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.

Stop distortion of competition: Equal rules for all market participant

China's subsidies and disregard for standards are distorting competition. Mechanical engineering in Europe needs better location conditions and fair competition.

Quarterly Report on Machinery & Equipment in India - July 2025

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.

Mosca Focuses on Malaysia

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 Executive Roundtable in Houston

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

Facts and figures: Research and innovation

In our theme publication you will find facts and figures on research and development, innovations and patents in machinery and equipment manufacturing.

VDMA Magazin Teaser Märkte und Konjunktur

Singapore on the rise
Singapore and the ASEAN region, one of the world's ­fastest-growing economic areas, are increasingly attracting the attention of companies looking to diversify. A new special economic zone is set to make this even easier.
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To the point

To the point

Auf den Punkt Zitat Markets and Economy

"We urge the Commission to make all available efforts to relieve the EU from tariffs on steel and aluminum derivatives, and to ensure that machinery and equipment are excluded from future sectoral tariffs."

Bertram Kawlath, VDMA President

Auf den Punkt Zahl Markets and Economy

27.4

billion euros

In 2024, German companies supplied machinery and equipment to the value of 27.4 billion euros to the United States. That was 13.7 per cent of total German machinery exports. This makes the United States the most important export market for machinery from Germany.

Source: VDMA

Auf den Punkt Zusammenfassung Märkte und Konjunktur

FAQ US tariffs
U.S. Tariffs: the Most Frequently Asked Questions
  • Trump's tariffs are hitting the mechanical engineering industry twice as hard: not only are they driving up costs, they are also causing considerable uncertainty among manufacturers who export to the US.
  • In order to support its members in overcoming the numerous challenges arising from the new customs regulations, the VDMA has set up a special task force.
  • A comprehensive FAQ provides answers to the most frequently asked questions about the new US tariffs – from practical implications and legal assessments to recommendations for action for affected companies.

VdmaSambaEvents

Events

Tue. 09.09.25 Tue. 09.09.25

  • China

The September edition of Connect2Discover@VDMA, delves into the VDMA's strategic realignment regarding its position on China.Besides that you get an overview

Places available

Tue. 16.09.25 Wed. 17.09.25

  • Economic Principles

On September 16 and 17, 2025, the 15th German Mechanical Engineering Summit will take place in Berlin. Two days full of inspiration, innovation and networking with the who's who of mechanical and plant engineering. Be part of it!

Places available

Tue. 28.10.25 Tue. 11.11.25

  • Markets & Economy

In addition to the economic situation in German and international mechanical engineering, the speakers will once again present developments in selected specialist sectors. This time, construction machinery and building material plants, machine tools, robotics + automation, woodworking machinery and general ventilation technology will be represented with key presentations. The focus will be on the current situation and the prospects for 2026.

Places available

Tue. 09.12.25 Tue. 09.12.25

  • Economic Forecasts
  • Economic Principles
  • Economic Situation and Forecast

What is the current state of the mechanical engineering industry and what are the prospects for 2026? What challenges need to be overcome and what setbacks are looming? We will also give you an insight into the economic policy activities of the VDMA 2025.

Places available

Aus unseren Inhalten

Our services

Our services
VDMA Trade Fair Calendar 2025
With the trade fair calendar, we have been offering our members an orientation guide to the global range of trade fairs relevant to mechanical engineering worldwide for many years.
Mechanical and plant engineering figures and charts 2025
Mechanical and plant engineering figures and charts provides a comprehensive overview of all major figures and statistics relating to the mechanical engineering industry.

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Economic bulletin international
Our monthly bulletin provides periodic updates on economic trends in the international mechanical engineering sector.

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Germany Economic Bulletin
Data on the economic situation of the German mechanical and plant engineering industry in the current economic context

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VDMA flash survey
Machine and plant manufacturers are looking ahead to the year 2024 with a subdued mood. A reluctance to invest and hire new staff is noticeable due to the high level of uncertainty. The order backlog is melting for many.

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Germany Incoming orders
The monthly figures for incoming orders in the German mechanical engineering industry
Database of technical regulations
The VDMA Specifications reflect the technical specifications of the German mechanical engineering industry. The directory contains all VDMA Specifications that are currently valid and in preparation.
VDMA Foreign offices
Here you will find links and further information on the VDMA liaison offices located in particularly important foreign markets

Ausschüsse

Committees
Markets & Economy Committee
Committee on Foreign Trade

The Foreign Trade Committee exchanges views on professional issues and tasks relating to exports. The members represent a cross-section of the mechanical engineering industry. They are part of the company's management or play a key role in exports. The Foreign Trade Committee mainly deals with market strategies for individual countries and regions as well as export issues such as trade policy and foreign trade policy.

 

 

Chair

Stefan Hantke

SCHNEEBERGER Holding AG

Management

Oliver Richtberg

Markets & Economy Committee
Committee on Macroeconomic Issues

The regular, practical assessment of the international economic situation of the mechanical engineering industry in the committee is an indispensable contribution to the VDMA's economic analysis, including short-term forecasts. In addition, the committee members support the VDMA's economic policy commitment by interpreting and discussing the content of economic developments and interrelationships in a political context.

 

Chair

Olaf Desch

Nidec DESCH Antriebstechnik

Asset Publisher

VDMA partners

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Institut für Weltwirtschaft Kiel
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German Economic Institute
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Leibniz-Zentrum für Europäische Wirtschaftsforschung
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gtai - Germany Trade & Invest

Ihr Kontakt

Ihr Kontakt

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Vorteilskommunikation

Benefits for you as a member

Largest industry network in Europe

3,600 primarily medium-sized member companies in the capital goods industry make the VDMA the largest industrial association in Europe and the most important network organization in the industry.

Strong representation of interests

The VDMA is the most important voice of the machinery and equipment manufacturing industry. It represents the common economic, technical and scientific interests of the industry in Germany and around the world.

A wide range of services

More than 500 VDMA employees worldwide support you with practical services to make the right decisions in your company - along the entire value chain.