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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.

From our content

From our content
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.

"Stop wasting trade opportunities with Canada"

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.

Covering manufacturing risks with Hermes Cover

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.

How Brazil's visa law can facilitate market access

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.

"China is not playing fair - politicians must respond!"

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.

China: Massive delivery delays for rare earths - VDMA survey

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.

Changes to "small" country-related EU embargoes

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.

Current VDMA overview "Country-related embargoes"

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 are booming

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.

Expected setback

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.

Bulletin international

In many countries, machine production developed better than expected in the first few months of the year.

India and Brazil with tailwind – USA and China under pressure

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.

EU sanctions on Syria largely lifted

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.

Discussion about new energy efficiency standards for data centers

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

EU-Commission publishes the biggest barriers in the Single Market

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.

Market entry Africa - Support for companies

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.

Solid figures for your decisions

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.

Securing payment terms for exports with credit insurance

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.

Dialogue on entry and stay for business purposes

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.

US tariffs harm trade worldwide

The majority of mechanical engineering companies are increasingly uncertain about the US market. An agreement on tariffs between the EU and the USA is now needed quickly. For the benefit of both sides.

Slight increase in global machinery industry feasible despite risks

Global machinery turnover is expected to grow by 1% in real terms in 2025 compared with the previous year, with significant differences in regional dynamics.

Incoming orders in mechanical engineering increase in Q1 2025

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.

Machinery exports stabilize slightly - China remains problematic

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.

Russia sanctions: Consolidated legal texts of the EU

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.

Russia sanctions: 17th EU 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.

Challenging environment in Egypt

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.

Happy members despite challenging environment

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

New EU counter tariffs: take part in the consultation!

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.

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.

Successful in foreign business

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.

Quarterly report on mechanical engineering in India April 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.

General Industry News of India

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

Chemical & Pharmaceutical Industry Scenario in India

Organic fertilizer uses to add $2.6 billion (€2.298 billion) revenue: Indian Biogas Association

Food & Beverage Industry Scenario in India

Budget may trigger consumption revival as purchasing power increase for middle class: FMCG Companies

Power Industry Scenario in India

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

Automotive Industry in India

Regierung will Notbremsung in großen Personenkraftwagen einführen

Infrastructure Scenario in India

19,826 km roads constructed so far under Bharatmala: Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways

New Chief Economist and new Head of Foreign Trade for VDMA

The VDMA is filling two key positions: Dr. Johannes Gernandt will become the association's Chief Economist, replacing Dr. Ralph Wiechers. Oliver Richtberg becomes the new Head of Foreign Trade, succeeding Ulrich Ackermann.

What’s Next for ASEAN in the Wake of Trump’s Tariffs?

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.

VDMA Foreign Trade goes Japan

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.

Update: Interactive Macro Facts Report

Get an overview of the most important macroeconomic data for all countries in the world - including forecasts from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and information on the business environment.

Webinar "Fit for tenders from international organizations"

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).

Shanghai-Germany Manufacturing Industry Exchange Dialogue

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

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

Updated Info Sheet on Licensing to China Now Available

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

Global patent balance: mechanical engineering in a strong position

One third of national patent applications in Germany can be attributed to the technology field of mechanical and plant engineering. In hardly any other country is this proportion as high as in Germany.

New tariffs for trade in goods with the United States

New tariffs for European goods in trade with the USA.

VDMA continues to advocate for easier posting of workers

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.

VDMA Magazin Teaser Märkte und Konjunktur

India: Hungry for more
For years, India has been dreaming of becoming a world-class economy. Thanks to targeted reforms, the trend towards de-risking and the associated reorganization of global supply chains, this dream could soon become a reality.
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Our expert and focus topics

Our expert and focus topics
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?

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Auf den Punkt Zitat Markets and Economy

"Chinese companies are heavily subsidized by the government. And they supply products to Europe that sometimes disregard our technical regulations. China is not playing fair, and politicians must respond to this,"

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

VDMA position paper
China is not playing fair - politicians must respond!
  • The machinery and equipment manufacturing sector is taking on the competition from Chinese companies and wants to maintain its strong position on the global market through its own efforts.
  • Companies need better framework conditions in order to be able to compete with Chinese companies. Europe as a business location must be strengthened.
  • Fair competition is needed. Companies no longer accept that Chinese companies do not abide by the rules of global trade.

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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

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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

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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.