As the largest network organization of the robotics industry in Europe, the VDMA Robotik + Automation Association is calling on political decision-makers in Europe to take action with an action plan. The aim must be to halt the loss of global competitiveness of the European economies.

Dr. Dietmar Ley, Chairman of VDMA Robotics + Automation. © VDMA Robotics + Automation

Dr. Dietmar Ley, Chairman of VDMA Robotik + Automation: "Europe's economy is falling behind in terms of international competitiveness and urgently needs to start a race to catch up. China, for example, has consistently shifted its focus to cutting-edge technology and high-quality manufacturing. The country is pushing ahead with automation and has doubled its robot density to 470 robots per 10,000 workers within four years. This more than doubles the EU average of 219 units. Robotics and automation are key technologies for the future growth of economies as they increase productivity, drive innovation and open up new opportunities."

The action plan at a glance

The Robotics Action Plan for Europe is aimed at policy makers across Europe, including national governments and EU institutions. The main recommendations of the paper are:

• Robotics offensive for Europe
  Europe is increasingly being challenged by aggressive industrial policy strategies in other countries - as demonstrated by the United States' America First agenda and China's five-year plan for robotics. With a targeted robotics offensive, Europe will regain its competitiveness, secure its independence, manage demographic change and shape the transition to climate neutrality.
• More venture capital for Europe's start-ups
  Urgently needed additional venture capital must be mobilized by reforming the regulatory framework for institutional investors. The French Tibi initiative has shown how capital can be successfully harnessed for innovation - Europe should follow suit.
• Drawing up a roadmap for competitiveness
  Europe's progress in the fields of robotics and artificial intelligence must be systematically benchmarked against developments in Asia and North America. Concrete national and Europe-wide technology roadmaps are needed.
• Focus on scalability
  Europe has an excellent research and innovation landscape that generates great ideas. But in the end, market success is what counts. China shows how ideas can be consistently transferred to industrial mass production. Political decision-makers in Europe must create an environment that not only produces innovations, but also transfers them to series production and broad application.