Despite the ongoing tense situation, the mood in the mechanical and plant engineering sector is brightening slightly in spring 2025. This is confirmed by the latest VDMA economic survey for the first quarter. The new economic policy reorientation announced by the new German government has been received particularly positively - a glimmer of hope for the valve industry too.
Expectations in the industrial and building valves sector have improved compared to the previous quarter. At the beginning of the year, people were still cautious but are now much more optimistic about developments in 2025.
In the building valves segment in particular, the current year could bring the long-awaited upturn - primarily due to impetus from the renovation sector. The positive trend in industrial valves is expected to continue, albeit at a slower pace than in the previous year.
Compared to other mechanical engineering sectors, the valve industry is currently in a good position: in terms of the business situation, it is in second place, directly behind materials handling technology. Nevertheless, the environment remains challenging - the lack of planning certainty continues to worry companies.
Positive outlook, but with reservations
While a total of 27 percent of mechanical engineering companies rate their current situation as good or very good, the figure for manufacturers of industrial valves is as high as 56 percent - a significant increase compared to the previous quarter (31 percent). A further 37 percent rate the situation as satisfactory and only 6 percent as poor. The outlook has also improved: 43 percent expect an improvement and 45 percent anticipate stable development.
However, it should be noted that the survey was completed before the US tariff increases and the corresponding reactions of other countries - the actual development therefore remains to be seen.
Regional perspectives in transition
The Middle East and South America are currently seen as the most promising sales markets. The outlook for the next six months also remains positive, with China also moving into focus. For Germany, the new political situation has led to significant improvements in the assessment and expectations.
North America, on the other hand, is losing importance. Stable development is expected for most regions. In the Middle East, 62 percent see further growth potential, while 50 percent expect positive development in South America.
Overall, the survey results show cautious confidence, but also a clear perception of existing challenges. Bureaucratic hurdles and locational disadvantages remain an issue - nevertheless, many are hoping for positive impetus from the new government.
