The VDMA also reported a significant increase in incoming orders for the German mechanical and plant engineering sector in June. Overall, orders increased by 53% compared to the previous year. Foreign orders rose by 57%. There was hardly any difference between incoming orders from non-euro countries, which grew by 57%, and those from the eurozone, which increased by 58%. Domestic orders recorded an increase of 45%. "Overall, companies in the mechanical and plant engineering sector continue to record a very pleasing trend in incoming orders. The reluctance of customers during the coronavirus peak phase has clearly been overcome. Investments in equipment, machinery and services are at the top of the agenda worldwide," comments Dr. Ralph Wiechers, VDMA Chief Economist.

Significant recovery in the last three months

In the last three months (April to June), incoming orders increased by 57% compared to the previous year. Domestic orders grew by 46% and orders from abroad by 63%. Orders from euro countries rose by 64%, while orders from non-euro countries increased by 63%.

Strong order intake compensates for last year

VDMA Chief Economist Dr. Ralph Wiechers

© VDMA

For the first half of 2021, the increase in incoming orders amounted to 29% in real terms compared to the previous year. However, orders from abroad increased significantly more than domestic orders. Wiechers is nevertheless pleased: "After the severe slump in orders last year, the current order situation is a blessing. It was not only possible to make up for the dip in the second quarter of 2020. Growth often goes beyond that. This is good news for companies in the mechanical and plant engineering sector and therefore also for the people who work there."