German machinery delivery to China – an update by VDMA China

The German Engineering Federation VDMA (Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau e.V.) has published new figures on German machinery deliveries to China. Mr. René Bernard, Business Development Manager and designated General Manager of VDMA China, presented the most recent developments and figures of the industry to VDMA China members and other companies in the sector at the German Centre Beijing last week. We would like to thank the VDMA for sharing this valuable information with Ecovis Beijing and our clients.

Despite the slowing down of the economy (China’s growth has decreased from 10.4% in 2010 to 7.7% in 2013 – expected by the World Bank), German machinery deliveries to China still remain strong, Mr. Bernard explained. As the following chart shows, machinery deliveries quadrupled between 2001 and 2011. In the past two years, we have seen a decrease of German exports in this field, however, China overall still remains Germany’s first customer market.

published by courtesy of VDMA

Amongst all machinery deliveries, the machine tools represent the strongest sector. In 2013, Germany was still the second largest importer of machinery and machine tools to China. The VDMA sees the main risks for German companies especially in operational issues, such as the increase of wages, recruitment and retain of highly qualified personnel, visa issues as well as intellectual property.

Although China does not seem the easiest market for German machinery companies to invest and operate in, VDMA still sees a lot of chances for this industry. It is the largest market for selling their goods and it values German quality standards and technology very high.

We would like to thank VDMA and Mr. Bernard once more for sharing their information and knowledge with us.
With contributions by Markus Mönch (ECOVIS Beijing)