In August 2025, incoming orders in the mechanical and plant engineering sector in North Rhine-Westphalia were 2% down on the previous year.
Domestic demand fell by 5%, while incoming orders from abroad did not change compared to the previous year. The eurozone recorded growth of 9% compared to the previous year, while the non-eurozone saw a decline of 5%.
In the three-month comparison from June to August 2025, which is less affected by short-term fluctuations, there was a 1% increase in total incoming orders. Domestic orders fell by 6% compared to the same period last year, while foreign business grew by 5%. Demand from the eurozone fell by 5%, while incoming orders from outside the eurozone increased by 10%.
The slight increase in a three-month comparison is no more than a small ray of hope. However, the monthly comparison reflects the uncertainty that continues to weigh on companies. The clear spread in foreign business shows the consequences of US customs policy. While incoming orders in the eurozone rose by 9%, they fell by 5% in the non-eurozone. The decline in domestic business shows that the German government is called upon to finally tackle the announced reforms.