On an even keel

Abstract

A review of the German textile machinery sector in 2000 is presented, with a separate panel detailing production, exports and sales statistics. By end-2000 global demand exceeded 1999 by 34%, producing a positive impact on production and exports. Production increased by 11% to USD3.6bn and exports by almost 19% to USD3.4bn. German textile machinery thus accounts for approximately a third of the entire industry. The US was the leading market, followed by Turkey, Italy, China and Brazil. Exports into Asia increased by almost 30% above average. In January-April 2001 a slight decrease in orders was recorded compared with the same period 2000. Comments are made by senior personnel of VDMA. Growth opportunities are seen in Asia and particularly in Middle and South America, and there is additional potential from the rapidly growing importance of top grade technical textiles. German manufacturers specialise in technology tailormade to customer specification.