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.
New tariffs for European goods in trade with the USA.
The tougher the international competition, the greater the demand for payment terms from the manufacturer. Currently, the disruptive measures taken by many national governments are increasing the need for export cover.
The mechanical engineering industry in Brazil will benefit from the simplification of certificates of origin through self-certification in Mercosur.
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?
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.
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.
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.
Donald Trump and Elon Musk may appear to be saviors - in reality, they are more like "wrecking balls". VDMA President Bertram Kawlath argues against this in an interview.
The US tariffs for Canada and Mexico also affect the mechanical engineering industry - and its American customers. Quick negotiations are needed to get the tariffs off the table.
The EU Commission has published the Combined Nomenclature (commodity codes) for the year 2025. There are only a few changes for mechanical engineering.
The EU Commission proposes postponement of the Deforestation Regulation by one year following massive criticism.
What's new in the area of export controls? What do you currently have to be prepared for in practice? The event addressed the most important developments.
Among other things, the event covered changes in the areas of ATLAS exports, carbon offset tax (CBAM) and customs clearance in third countries.
