Heavy seas and still no calmer waters in sight: The mechanical and plant engineering industry in Germany is expecting a decline in production in the coming year, and for the first time in many years there is a threat of job losses in the sector, albeit slight. In order to strengthen Germany and Europe as a business location, the VDMA is therefore calling for a significant turnaround in economic policy. "We are experiencing a world characterised by uncertainty: due to wars, trade policy trench warfare and the electoral success of extremist parties and candidates with their slogans that seek to destabilise or even destroy our free market economy," said VDMA President Bertram Kawlath at the association's annual press conference in Frankfurt.  

"This is all the more reason why we finally need a clear and reliable economic policy that gives companies confidence and freedom and gives them the flexibility to successfully compete internationally. We need an end to over-regulation, an end to strict technological requirements and an end to the far too high cost burdens in Germany," he demanded. 

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