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AMB 2026: Collaborative Processes Drive Automation

Central topic: Automation: Patrick Schwarzkopf (VDMA) discusses collaborative processes, artificial intelligence, and automation for SMEs using no-code solutions. As manufacturing companies strive to make their processes more efficient and flexible, automation solutions play a key role, especially in areas where people and machines are increasingly collaborating. AMB 2026 addresses this key topic with a practical approach and demonstrates how collaborative processes are evolving across the entire metal cutting process chain. In this interview, Patrick Schwarzkopf, Director General of the VDMA Robotics and Automation Association, analyzes the key factors driving this evolution and provides an overview of the developments companies should keep an eye on. Automation as one of the three central themes: Collaborative processes are gaining increasing importance AMB : The robotics and automation industry is forecasting a 5% decline in revenue by 2026; nevertheless, pressure on manufacturing companies to automate their processes continues to grow. Why is now the right time to focus on collaborative processes, and what factors are driving companies to take this step? Patrick Schwarzkopf : It's true, we're still observing a marked caution in investments, due to several reasons: from geopolitical tensions to the well-known challenges related to the competitiveness of production sites. However, the trend toward automation remains unchanged. Demographic change will become even more evident in the coming years; this will make it necessary to automate an increasing number of activities to support the remaining qualified personnel. Only in this way can we remain competitive. The interaction between humans and machines will be crucial. The extremely rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI and so-called physical AI, opens up new possibilities, for example through agent AI (Agentic AI) and through the much simpler use and programming of automation solutions. AMB : For a long time, automation was primarily designed for large-scale production. Today, however, robotic solutions are a viable option even for small series. How far has this evolution come, and what does a small business actually need to introduce automation into its production process? Patrick Schwarzkopf : Automation for SMEs is making enormous strides. Technological developments in recent years have been extraordinary and have significantly reduced the barriers to entry for small and medium-sized enterprises. Typical scenarios are "low volume, high mix," characterized by low production volumes and a high degree of product diversity. In these contexts, it is crucial that programming can be performed quickly, easily, and without significant staff effort. Numerous no-code solutions exist today for this purpose, requiring no programming knowledge. Automation workflows can be configured via graphical interfaces with drag-and-drop functionality, while robot trajectories can be taught through manual guidance (hand-guiding) and memorized at the push of a button. Major manufacturers have long been offering solutions specifically designed to meet the needs of SMEs. Pragmatic configurations, such as a robot working overnight, are often sufficient, thus enabling a significant increase in productivity. The obstacle is often less technological than cultural: many companies continue to believe that automation is inevitably too complex or too expensive. This belief is now obsolete, because solutions already exist and are easily observed at specialized trade shows like AMB. A useful reference point, for example, is Go4Robotics, the online platform of the International Federation of Robotics (IFR). AMB : As programming and operation become easier, direct collaboration between humans and robots is also becoming increasingly practical. Today, the two increasingly work side by side, without the need for protective barriers: it was precisely the development of AI-supported sensor systems that made this approach truly feasible. What concrete changes does all this mean for the shop floor, and how should companies rethink processes and the role of people? Patrick Schwarzkopf : Collaborative robots (cobots) are now well established. In many applications, however, the term "coexistence" is more accurately used: humans and robots operate without barriers, enabling direct and safe interaction. We are now seeing a further level of even closer collaboration with humanoid robotics. AI is making extraordinary progress in this area: robots are increasingly capable of interpreting their surroundings and acting autonomously and appropriately. Although significant pioneering work is still needed, humanoid robots are gradually emerging from research laboratories and are already finding their first experimental applications in industrial settings. It will still be some time before this technology reaches full maturity for widespread use. At the same time, however, humanoid robotics is accelerating the evolution of close human-machine interaction, for example through the ability to communicate verbally with robots. AMB : Many of these developments are best appreciated by observing them live. In September, AMB will bring together the entire metalworking ecosystem in Stuttgart: manufacturers, users, and researchers under one roof. What contribution can this unique combination make to the wider adoption of collaborative automation? And why is a visit to the trade fair essential for all metalworking companies considering the introduction of automation solutions? Patrick Schwarzkopf : A look at the data clearly highlights its significance: according to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), machine tending—the automatic loading and unloading of workpieces on machine tools—is one of the main applications of robotics. Over the past decade, new annual installations of robots for handling tasks on machine tools have increased from 14,500 in 2015 to 19,000 in 2024. Preliminary data from the IFR indicate that the trend will continue with significant, double-digit growth in 2025. The use of collaborative robots (cobots) has also increased significantly in recent years: in 2024, approximately 65,000 cobots were installed worldwide, representing 12% of all industrial robots. The most significant increases are being seen in mobile robotics, which enables the flexibly connecting different production machines, for example through mobile manipulators, i.e., mobile platforms equipped with a robotic arm. It's hard to find such a comprehensive, focused, and industry-specific overview as that offered by a specialized trade fair. At AMB, you can see and experience firsthand the automation solutions for metalworking by chip removal. AMB : Thank you for the interview, Mr. Schwarzkopf. Focus on automation at AMB 2026 in the Oskar-Lapp-Halle (Hall 6) Automation will be a key focus at AMB 2026 in nearly every exhibition hall: from machine tool manufacturers with automation systems to solutions for tools and clamping technology, such as automatic setup. A special highlight will be the Oskar-Lapp-Halle (Hall 6), which will house the "Automation and Handling Technologies" area. Numerous exhibiting companies—including FANUC, KUKA, Cellro, RoboJob, Wassermann Technologie, and many others—will present their latest solutions for production and process management. It's worth checking out the exhibitor list, as here, trade visitors can experience firsthand how robotics, collaborative automation, Industry 4.0 approaches, and the IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) are evolving metal-cutting processes, introducing new solutions and driving innovation in the industry. About AMB Since 1982, AMB has presented the highlights of the international metalworking industry. "Where Metal Comes Alive" will once again be a fixture on the industry's agenda in 2026, this year from September 15 to 19. It is the international marketplace and meeting place for metalworking, showcasing the latest products, technologies, innovations, services, and concepts in all their facets. AMB is supported by the VDMA Präzisionswerkzeuge (Precision Tools), VDMA Software and Digitalization (Software and Digitalization), and the VDW Verein Deutscher Werkzeugmaschinenfabriken e.V. (German Machine Tool Builders' Association).

UCIMU Assembly: in 2026 the Italian machine tool, robot and automation manufacturing industry is expected to experience a timid recovery

2025 proved to be a generally weak year for the Italian machine tool, robot, and automation manufacturing industry, with production essentially stagnating compared to the previous year. This disappointing result was driven by the sharp decline in exports. Domestic market activity fared better, driven by the recovery in demand, but despite double-digit increases, figures were still far from 2021-2022 levels. Despite this, the Italian industry in the sector confirmed its position, once again, as a major player on the international scene, ranking fifth in the world for production and consumption and fourth in exports. Forecasts for 2026 predict a modest recovery driven by improved collection performance on the domestic market, thanks in part to the availability of the Hyper-Depreciation program. Activity abroad remains weak. This, in short, is the framework outlined by Riccardo Rosa, President of UCIMU-SISTEMI PER PRODURRE, during the Shareholders' Meeting. The meeting was attended by Barbara Cimmino, Vice President of CONFINDUSTRIA for Exports and Investment Attraction, and Paolo Magri, President of the ISPI Scientific Committee. Both were moderated and interviewed by Rita Querzè, a journalist for Il Corriere della Sera. This was followed by a discussion between two young entrepreneurs, Luca Dadone and Elisa Stucchi, who shared their vision for innovation, using AI and augmented reality applied to the manufacturing world. Over 150 guests attended, including entrepreneurs and managers from the sector, institutional representatives, and journalists. THE 2025 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS According to the final data processed by the UCIMU Study & Business Culture Center, in 2025, Italian production of machine tools, robots, and automation systems reached 6,391 million euros, up 1% compared to 2024. Exports saw a significant decline, dropping 12% to €3,760 million. The export-to-production ratio fell to 58.8%, compared to 67.5% in 2024. In 2025, the main outlet markets for Italian offerings were: United States (572 million, -9%), Germany (274 million, -24.9%), France (204 million, +0.2%), Poland (188 million, +11.2%), Turkey (168 million, -11.5%), India (164 million, -11.6%), Mexico (158 million, -10%), Spain (147 million, -6.5%), China (110 million, -54.1%), Brazil (84 million, +15.9%). After two years of decline, Italian manufacturers' domestic deliveries returned to growth, reaching €2,631 million, up 28.1% from the previous year. This performance was driven by the recovery in domestic consumption, which rose 22.3% to €4,534 million. Imports stood at 1,903 million euros, up 15.1% compared to 2024. The share of domestic consumption covered by foreign supplies fell by three percentage points to 42%. Production capacity utilization declined, with the annual average falling from 77.3% in 2024 to 76.5%. The same trend was observed for the order book, which stood at 6.3 months of guaranteed production, compared to 6.5 months in 2024. The sector's turnover stopped at 9,330 million euros. THE 2026 FORECASTS According to forecasts developed by the UCIMU Study & Business Culture Center, 2026 will see a slight recovery in the Italian machine tool, robot, and automation manufacturing industry. All indicators will return to positive territory, but increases will still be limited. Production will reach €6.64 billion (+3.9%). Exports will remain at the previous year's level, reaching €3.785 billion (+0.7%). The positive trend in domestic deliveries by manufacturers will continue, expected to grow by 8.5% to €2,855 million, driven by Italian demand, which is expected to reach €4,870 million (+7.4%). Imports will also show a positive trend, reaching 2,015 million (+5.9%). THE ITALIAN MACHINE TOOL INDUSTRY BETWEEN GEOPOLITICAL INSTABILITY AND INCENTIVES Riccardo Rosa, president of UCIMU-SISTEMI PER PRODURRE, stated: "2025 was an overall disappointing year for Italian machine tool manufacturers, who had to contend primarily with a sharp decline in export sales. On the other hand, despite the recovery, domestic market activity was also unsatisfactory, partly due to the chaos surrounding Transition 5.0." "On the international front, geopolitical instability has made the activity of the sector represented by UCIMU particularly complicated, as foreign markets are the main outlet for its production." "That said, the events of recent years have subjected our businesses to a continuous stress test, training them to operate in unprecedented business conditions. For this reason too, " continued Riccardo Rosa, " we note that not everything that happens, directly connected to our world, impacts our business in the same way." DUTIES "The tariffs introduced by the Trump administration have had a manageable impact for us. The data shows it: in 2025 ," stated Riccardo Rosa, " sales in the United States are expected to drop by 9%. But the US remains, by far, the primary market for Made in Italy products in this sector. This is possible for several reasons: first, the United States does not have sufficient local production to cover domestic consumption and requires advanced, highly customized technology; furthermore, at this particular moment in history, the defense sector, a strategic sector for the country and therefore exempt from paying duties, is experiencing fairly buoyant demand. These three factors have allowed, and continue to allow, Italian manufacturers to continue operating in the American market, which has always appreciated the characteristics of our offering." "This doesn't mean ," the president added, " that the critical issues have been eliminated. For the types of machinery also produced by American manufacturers, the tariff is clearly a heavy burden that has limited sales of Made in Italy products in this sector. But that's not all. Trump's trade policy has had some significant indirect effects; for example, the increased cost of some raw materials applied by other countries in response to the tariffs, an increase that also impacts our business." EUROPE AND THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY "Managing the impact of wars and the weakness of a key market like Europe has proven more complicated. In the case of wars, the most obvious example for us manufacturers is the disappearance of Russia from our radar. In 2013, before the invasion of Crimea and the first sanctions, it was our fourth-largest export market, with €177 million in exports. In 2022, it was our eighth-largest destination market (with €99 million). Since 2023, it has been absent and, more importantly, it is a market we have given away to Chinese manufacturers. Who knows if, once this wound at the heart of Europe is healed, we will be able to recover at least some of the lost ground." "And speaking of Europe ," stated Riccardo Rosa, " we are dangerously approaching the risk of deindustrialization. The absolutely questionable decisions made by EU authorities regarding the electric automotive transition are increasingly showing their concrete effects. At a time when the younger generations' concept of transportation is profoundly changing, with the car no longer considered a status symbol but a means of travel, European government bodies, with their dirigiste attitude, have effectively allowed Asian offerings to invade spaces previously reserved for our manufacturing sector. Before the effects become irreversible, we ask those who represent and govern us in Europe to rethink their approach, which must be based on the principle of technological neutrality, thus allowing the automotive supply chain, and its entire extensive supply chain, to properly manage the ongoing transition not only with respect for the environment but also, where possible, safeguarding the jobs of those employed in the industry." "Aside from the car to which it is so closely tied, Germany, the sick man of Europe, may be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. In the first quarter of 2026, the machine tool orders index, compiled by the German association, rose 15.1%, breaking a negative trend that had lasted three consecutive years. The recovery plan promoted by Chancellor Mertz and the defense support plan are restoring confidence in the country. Let's hope this is indeed the case, because if the German locomotive restarts, we, the first carriage of this train, are ready to hook up to it and continue working in the Made in Germany production chains, which travel along very long routes, distributing our production everywhere in the world." THE HORMUZ CRISIS "While we await the terms of the agreement and are aware that it will take time for freight transit to resume its normal pace, the impact on our business is currently manageable, and we are confident that the easing of tensions in the Middle East will bring significant benefits to our companies. In terms of direct business, the region accounts for approximately 30% of exports to Asia, so a return to "normalcy" will boost our business in the region, where metal forming technologies are in particular in demand in response to major infrastructure development plans. Indirectly, the resumption of freight transit will allow for a gradual reduction in procurement costs, which have risen sharply in recent months." THE ITALIAN MARKET AND INCENTIVES "In a crucial moment like the one we are experiencing, with decidedly weak foreign demand, the domestic market becomes even more important for our companies. The availability of the Hyper-Depreciation measure provided for by the new Transition Plan 5.0, now fully operational, is an excellent tool to support Italian demand for new machine tools." We must say that 2026 had started off on a really challenging note: domestic order intake had dropped significantly, 29% compared to the January-March 2025 period. However, the feeling was that demand had stalled. In this first month of Hyper-Depreciation, with the GSE Platform now operational, we've already seen a shift in attitude among our Italian customers. This confirms what we've been saying for some time: Italian demand is there, but customers were waiting for clarity before they could place their orders. The incentive is now working. On the sidelines of the Mechanics Roundtable convened by the Ministry of Business and Made in Italy at the end of June, it emerged that 90% of the total resource reservation requests entered into the platform were for investments in machine tools. Good news! MIMIT deserves recognition for having developed, albeit belatedly, an easy-to-use, three-year measure. Finally, Italian companies have an industrial policy measure that allows for medium-term planning for both producers and investors. The hope is that its use will allow Italian demand to return to the high levels of 2021-2022, thus also ensuring the proper updating of our industry, which requires continuous innovation to remain competitive in the international market, where digital technology and AI are redrawing the rules of the game.

JIMTOF 2026

From October 26 to 31, the 33rd edition of JIMTOF, an international exhibition dedicated to the machine tool sector and considered one of the world's leading international technology fairs, will take place at Tokyo Big Sight. Covering an area of ​​118,540 square meters, there will be 944 exhibitors at a total of 4,423 booths, including 725 Japanese and 219 international, organized by product category. The exhibitor list is published online on the official website www.jimtof.org. The previous 2024 edition attracted 162,670 visitors. Manufacturing professionals, by registering in September on the trade fair website, will be able to experience firsthand and gather information on the most innovative technologies, from machine tools to accessories. JIMTOF 2026 will feature metal cutting and forming machine tools, machine tool accessories, cutting and wear-resistant tools, diamond and CBN tools, grinding wheels and abrasives, gears and gearing devices, hydraulic, pneumatic, and hydraulic machinery, precision measuring machines and instruments, optical measuring instruments, testing machines, and CAD/CAM. JIMTOF has been a highly popular event that has been held every two years for over fifty years, a well-established trade fair renowned for its ability to provide visitors with information on a wide range of products used in the manufacturing industry. by Marinella Croci

Valvitalia Group wins $30 million contract for US Desert Southwest gas pipeline

The order strengthens the order backlog, which has risen to €263 million. GOVERNANCE: GROUP'S CORPORATE BODIES RENEWED FOR THE NEXT THREE-YEAR PERIOD The supply concerns 94 large diameter valves that will be manufactured in the Rivanazzano Terme plant and that will be used for a new 840 km infrastructure that will connect Texas to New Mexico and Arizona. President Salvatore Ruggeri: "This award confirms our ability to participate in major international energy infrastructure programs and leverages the industrial know-how developed in Italy." Executive Vice President Massimiliano Ruggeri: "The Americas are an increasingly central market for the Group and offer interesting prospects for further growth in the medium to long term." The Valvitalia Group announces that it has been awarded a new contract valued at approximately $30 million for the supply of valves for the Desert Southwest project, one of the most significant energy infrastructure projects currently under development in the Southwest United States. The order concerns the production of 94 48-inch valves, which will be entirely designed and manufactured at the Rivanazzano Terme (PV) industrial site, confirming the central role of Made in Italy and the Group's technological expertise in the creation of highly complex solutions for major international energy projects. Delivery of the supply is scheduled for 2027. The order acquisition contributes to the growth of the Group's order book, which has risen to approximately €263 million, and further strengthens Valvitalia's positioning in the Americas, currently the Group's primary destination market. Overall, orders from North and South America account for over 37% of total bookings, confirming the continent's strategic importance for business development. To support its commitment in the region, the Group can also count on the presence of Valvitalia USA staff in Houston, Texas. Led by Massimiliano Ruggeri, the organization ensures stable coverage of the American market and supports Valvitalia's development efforts in a region of primary global importance. Salvatore Ruggeri , President of Valvitalia, commented: "Winning this important contract confirms the trust our clients place in the expertise, reliability, and quality of the solutions we design and implement. Participating in a strategic infrastructure project like Desert Southwest means making a concrete contribution to the energy development of a rapidly growing area and, at the same time, confirms our ability to successfully participate in major international infrastructure programs. This result enhances the wealth of expertise we have built over the years and the crucial contribution of our people. The quality of our order backlog allows us to look confidently to future growth prospects and confirms the validity of our path, supported by an increasingly qualified presence in energy markets with the greatest potential." Massimiliano Ruggeri , Executive Vice President of Valvitalia, stated: "This award is an important recognition of the work we've done over the years to consolidate our presence in the Americas and strengthen relationships with leading energy sector operators. The US continues to be a key market for Valvitalia and offers exciting development opportunities, supported by significant investments in energy infrastructure. At the same time, we are continuing our growth in South America, where we see favorable prospects for business expansion. The quality of the opportunities and ongoing dialogue with leading clients allow us to confidently look forward to the evolution of our presence in the region." Desert Southwest The US infrastructure, estimated at $5.6 billion, will extend for approximately 840 kilometers, connecting the Permian Basin, one of North America's most important hydrocarbon fields located between West Texas and New Mexico, to end-use markets in the southwestern United States, particularly Arizona and New Mexico. The pipeline's construction will meet the region's growing energy demand, supporting population growth and regional economic development. Dedicated Gas Pipeline Furthermore, among the most recent and significant opportunities in South America, there is the supply of valves for the Gasoducto Dedicado project in Argentina, a 480-kilometer gas pipeline under construction in the Province of Neuquén. The leadership of the group has been confirmed for the next three years. Valvitalia's Shareholders' Meeting and Board of Directors also renewed the Group's governing bodies for the three-year period 2026-2028, confirming the continuity of the governance that has accompanied the development and growth path of recent years. Salvatore Ruggeri was confirmed as President, Massimiliano Ruggeri as Executive Vice President, and Andrea Forzi as Chief Executive Officer. The new Board of Directors also includes Manuela Carra, Angela Colmellere, Paolo Rinaldi, and Manuela Sabbatini. Franco Gianni and Andrea Alghisi will also participate in the Board of Directors' meetings as observers. At the same time, the new Board of Statutory Auditors was appointed, composed of Micol Marisa as President, Annalisa Zanini and Giuseppe Galeano as effective Auditors. The renewal of these positions ensures strategic and managerial continuity for the Group at a time marked by a growing international presence and significant development opportunities in its key markets.

AI in manufacturing: from pilot to practical application

Artificial intelligence as a central theme at AMB 2026 // Guido Reimann, VDMA, discusses opportunities, challenges and current developments At AMB, the international trade fair for metalworking, taking place in Stuttgart from September 15 to 19, 2026, Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be one of the three main topics, alongside automation and the circular economy. We discussed the progress made by the industry and the useful insights decision makers can draw from AMB 2026 with Guido Reimann. He is Deputy General Manager of VDMA Software and Digitalization and Coordinator of the VDMA Competence Network on Artificial Intelligence. AMB: AI was a hotly debated topic at AMB 2024. Where does the metalworking industry stand today, in 2026? Has AI become a standard practice, or are pilot projects still prevalent? Guido Reimann: For the mechanical and plant engineering sector in general, as well as for manufacturers of precision tools and machine tools, the topic of artificial intelligence has gained further importance. A VDMA survey in spring 2026 revealed that over 80% of mechanical engineering companies attach great importance to artificial intelligence technologies. Around a third of companies are already using AI solutions in production. This means the era of pilot projects is over. We are seeing increasing practical application of AI. Furthermore, many pilot projects continue to be conducted within companies to further familiarize themselves with the technology and test new application possibilities. Current business application areas related to manufacturing focus on software development, engineering and design, business management, IT, marketing, and communications. Artificial intelligence solutions are also increasingly being used in sales and product-related services for customers in the mechanical engineering industry. To fully leverage their potential, companies must focus on their digitalization and promote it strategically. AMB: The mechanical and plant engineering sector expects a tangible increase in efficiency thanks to AI. What specific figures and success stories do you know in the metalworking industry? And what are the main obstacles to implementation? Guido Reimann: AI-based solutions and approaches not only promise increased efficiency, they also ensure it along the entire value chain. This is reflected, for example, in the reduction of costs for producing technical documentation and user manuals, in the time and cost savings in purchasing by increasing the number of identical components and thus improving purchasing conditions, or in the reduction of unplanned downtime, for example on machine tools, where cost savings of 10 to 20% are possible. Furthermore, AI solutions can significantly accelerate processes in many areas: development, production, sales, and customer service. Comprehensive and sustainable digitalization is a fundamental prerequisite for the use of artificial intelligence and other digital technologies. However, obstacles often include change management, slow implementation, and a lack of human resources. Projects often fail less due to technical issues than to organizational difficulties, inadequate decision-making structures, poor engagement, insufficient knowledge of applications and limitations, and other non-technical factors. And even in the case of AI, it's true that not all pilot projects are successful. The crucial factor is knowing when to stop and redirect limited resources towards more effective digitalization activities. AMB: Which AI technologies and application areas do you believe will dominate AMB 2026, and why is participation in AMB 2026 essential for metalworking professionals interested in AI? Guido Reimann: In traditional product development and design, as well as in software development, we are now seeing numerous AI-based solutions offered by the software industry. At the same time, many mechanical engineering companies have integrated AI technologies into their related products or services, making them available for metalworking. At AMB, industry professionals will find not only manufacturers and suppliers of production machinery, but also software and service providers that support seamless implementation along the entire value chain. AMB: Industrial AI, the European AI Regulation, humanoid robotics, quantum computing: the agenda is getting busier. What developments should decision makers in the metalworking industry definitely keep an eye on over the next five years? Guido Reimann : It's true that the range of technologies, applications, and regulatory requirements relevant to the digital sector is constantly expanding. This also means that equipment manufacturers and application industries must keep pace with this change. Digital technologies are not only becoming increasingly important for internal business processes, but are also significantly influencing companies' business models. Those who are new to new digital technologies and their potential applications within their own company and in their customers' industries can lay the foundation for future success well in advance. A VDMA survey from spring 2026 also shows that mechanical engineering companies are focusing intensively on the following three technologies and intend to expand their use: artificial intelligence, digital twins, and open source software. AMB: Thank you for the interview, Mr. Reimann. Artificial Intelligence at the heart of the program For those who want to delve deeper into the topic of AI at AMB 2026, not only by visiting the exhibition stands but also by interacting directly with experts, the AMB Stage offers two special opportunities on Wednesday, September 16: From 12:00 to 1:30 p.m., VDMA Software und Digitalisierung invites you to a panel discussion entitled "Artificial Intelligence in Production - Practical Examples." This will be followed at 2:00 p.m. by the presentation "AI in Production - From Impact to Added Value," featuring industry, research, and application professionals who will discuss current developments, concrete application examples, and open questions related to the use of AI in mechanical processing. The AMB Stage is located in the atrium (EO010) at the east entrance. About AMB Since 1982, AMB has presented the highlights of the international metalworking industry. "Where metal comes alive" will also be a regular event on the industry's agenda in 2026, this year from September 15 to 19. It is the international marketplace and meeting place for metal cutting, showcasing the latest products, technologies, innovations, services, and concepts in all their facets. AMB is supported by the VDMA Precision Tools, VDMA Software and Digitalization, and the VDW Verein Deutscher Werkzeugmaschinenfabriken e.V. (German Machine Tool Builders' Association). Further information is available at www.amb-messe.de/

Machine tools: Economic recovery remains fragile due to persistent structural pressures

CECIMO examined the challenges the sector will face in 2026 and discussed future risks and opportunities, in a context still characterized by political and economic uncertainty. Economic situation and prospects In 2025, the European machine tool sector continued to face a challenging economic environment, with weak demand and increased global competition putting pressure on CECIMO member companies. European machine tool production is estimated to have decreased by approximately 6.6% compared to 2024, reaching €23.5 billion, demonstrating that the slowdown has yet to ease. This trend is also impacting Europe's position in the global market. In 2025, Europe's share of global machine tool production fell to approximately 30.8%, almost 2 percentage points less than the previous year. This trend is particularly worrying when compared to 2023, when Europe accounted for 33.4% of global production. This means that Europe has lost almost 3 percentage points of global production share in just two years, indicating a gradual erosion of its "industrial position." Furthermore, the European machine tool market showed clear signs of weakening when considering consumption levels, which decreased by 3.7% compared to 2024, reflecting lower demand across European countries. Trade flows also declined: exports by European machine tool manufacturers decreased by 8.8%, while imports fell by 4.2%. The main export destinations for European machine tool manufacturers (excluding Europe) are the United States, China, and India. At the same time, when looking at European machine tool import flows, Japan, China, and South Korea continue to be the most significant suppliers. Overall, these developments confirm that the sector has been operating in a challenging economic environment, impacted by slowing investment, persistent uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and weakening momentum in both European and global markets. Taken together, these factors have reduced demand for machine tools and negatively impacted the operating conditions of CECIMO members. A similar picture emerges when looking at the order levels of the CECIMO8* index. Domestic orders decreased by approximately 1.7% in 2025 compared to 2024, marking the third consecutive year of contraction. By contrast, foreign orders increased by 1.2% over the same period, marking the first year of growth after two consecutive years of decline. CECIMO's projections for 2026 indicate a modest improvement after two consecutive years of declining production and consumption in the European machine tool sector. Consumption and production levels are expected to increase in European countries, suggesting a possible stabilization. CECIMO's estimates for orders indicate an improvement in overall order volumes in the CECIMO8 index countries in 2026. However, this outlook remains fragile and exposed to external shocks and general market conditions and should therefore be interpreted as a transition phase rather than a full recovery. The sector will continue to operate in a highly uncertain environment, characterized by geopolitical tensions and conflicts, trade risks, potential tariff measures, energy market volatility, and weak investment dynamics in major European economies. Since European machine tool manufacturers remain highly exposed to international trade and industrial investment cycles, any deterioration in these conditions could limit the expected recovery and potential future recoveries. At the same time, CECIMO sees potential support from positive spillover effects related to public investment and strategic sectors such as defense, aerospace, electrification, artificial intelligence technologies, and advanced engineering. These sectors could help support demand for advanced and high-precision manufacturing solutions, but their impact will depend on timely implementation and avoiding further delays. A stable trade environment, increased industrial investment, and effective policy measures could mark the beginning of a gradual recovery for the European machine tool sector. Without these conditions, Europe risks further weakening its position in machine tool technologies, while global competitors continue to strengthen their industrial capabilities. "The current situation confirms that Europe cannot take its industrial leadership for granted. European machine tool manufacturers continue to operate in a challenging environment, characterized by declining demand, persistent global uncertainty, and growing competitive pressure. While some opportunities may emerge in strategic sectors, Europe needs a stable policy framework, increased industrial investment, and faster implementation of measures to support advanced manufacturing," commented François Duval, President of CECIMO.