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Machine tools: Economic recovery remains fragile due to persistent structural pressures

CECIMO examined the challenges the sector will face in 2026 and discussed future risks and opportunities, in a context still characterized by political and economic uncertainty. Economic situation and prospects In 2025, the European machine tool sector continued to face a challenging economic environment, with weak demand and increased global competition putting pressure on CECIMO member companies. European machine tool production is estimated to have decreased by approximately 6.6% compared to 2024, reaching €23.5 billion, demonstrating that the slowdown has yet to ease. This trend is also impacting Europe's position in the global market. In 2025, Europe's share of global machine tool production fell to approximately 30.8%, almost 2 percentage points less than the previous year. This trend is particularly worrying when compared to 2023, when Europe accounted for 33.4% of global production. This means that Europe has lost almost 3 percentage points of global production share in just two years, indicating a gradual erosion of its "industrial position." Furthermore, the European machine tool market showed clear signs of weakening when considering consumption levels, which decreased by 3.7% compared to 2024, reflecting lower demand across European countries. Trade flows also declined: exports by European machine tool manufacturers decreased by 8.8%, while imports fell by 4.2%. The main export destinations for European machine tool manufacturers (excluding Europe) are the United States, China, and India. At the same time, when looking at European machine tool import flows, Japan, China, and South Korea continue to be the most significant suppliers. Overall, these developments confirm that the sector has been operating in a challenging economic environment, impacted by slowing investment, persistent uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and weakening momentum in both European and global markets. Taken together, these factors have reduced demand for machine tools and negatively impacted the operating conditions of CECIMO members. A similar picture emerges when looking at the order levels of the CECIMO8* index. Domestic orders decreased by approximately 1.7% in 2025 compared to 2024, marking the third consecutive year of contraction. By contrast, foreign orders increased by 1.2% over the same period, marking the first year of growth after two consecutive years of decline. CECIMO's projections for 2026 indicate a modest improvement after two consecutive years of declining production and consumption in the European machine tool sector. Consumption and production levels are expected to increase in European countries, suggesting a possible stabilization. CECIMO's estimates for orders indicate an improvement in overall order volumes in the CECIMO8 index countries in 2026. However, this outlook remains fragile and exposed to external shocks and general market conditions and should therefore be interpreted as a transition phase rather than a full recovery. The sector will continue to operate in a highly uncertain environment, characterized by geopolitical tensions and conflicts, trade risks, potential tariff measures, energy market volatility, and weak investment dynamics in major European economies. Since European machine tool manufacturers remain highly exposed to international trade and industrial investment cycles, any deterioration in these conditions could limit the expected recovery and potential future recoveries. At the same time, CECIMO sees potential support from positive spillover effects related to public investment and strategic sectors such as defense, aerospace, electrification, artificial intelligence technologies, and advanced engineering. These sectors could help support demand for advanced and high-precision manufacturing solutions, but their impact will depend on timely implementation and avoiding further delays. A stable trade environment, increased industrial investment, and effective policy measures could mark the beginning of a gradual recovery for the European machine tool sector. Without these conditions, Europe risks further weakening its position in machine tool technologies, while global competitors continue to strengthen their industrial capabilities. "The current situation confirms that Europe cannot take its industrial leadership for granted. European machine tool manufacturers continue to operate in a challenging environment, characterized by declining demand, persistent global uncertainty, and growing competitive pressure. While some opportunities may emerge in strategic sectors, Europe needs a stable policy framework, increased industrial investment, and faster implementation of measures to support advanced manufacturing," commented François Duval, President of CECIMO.

Made in Steel 2027: Exhibition space sales open

Registration is now open for the twelfth edition of the international Conference & Exhibition dedicated to the steel industry. In a European market that is showing signs of stabilization after difficult years, the event confirms itself as a strategic platform for business and discussion between operators in the sector. The exhibition space sales campaign for Made in Steel 2027 , the international event dedicated to the steel industry, has officially begun. Scheduled for May 11, 12, and 13 at Fiera Milano , the event is organized by siderweb in conjunction with Fiera Milano. Interested companies can reserve their space at an event that, year after year, has established itself as an international reference point for steel producers, distributors, traders, service centers, processors, and users. An "Early Bird" option will also be available for exhibitors who book by June 19. The twelfth edition of Made in Steel presents itself with a renewed layout and expanded spaces in pavilions 8, 12 and 16 , designed to welcome an ever-increasing number of companies and promote visibility, networking and business opportunities along the entire steel supply chain. Following the growth of the 2025 edition, which attracted over 19,000 attendees and nearly 400 companies from all over the world, Made in Steel is looking to 2027 with the aim of further consolidating its role as a European platform for discussion, innovation, and development for the sector. "The opening of sales represents the first step towards an edition that aims to position the Italian steel industry in an even more international and business-oriented context," said Made in Steel CEO Paolo Morandi. "In a period of profound transformation for the European steel industry, the biennial event aims to be a place where companies, institutions, and stakeholders can meet to develop new growth opportunities and jointly address the challenges of competitiveness and industrial transition." In addition to the exhibition area, Made in Steel 2027 will also offer a rich program of conferences, round tables, and in-depth discussions dedicated to key topics in the steel industry: market dynamics, regulations, technological innovation, sustainability and the circular economy, geopolitics, and industrial competitiveness. The market context: between first signs of recovery and new competitive challenges The opening of registrations for Made in Steel 2027 comes at a particularly significant time for the European steel market. After three consecutive years of declining demand, the sector is showing signs of stabilization, despite a still highly uncertain environment. According to Eurofer's latest Economic and Steel Market Outlook, apparent steel consumption in the European Union is expected to return to growth in 2026, albeit at a moderate pace, supported by a gradual improvement in industrial activity and investment. However, demand levels remain lower than those recorded before the pandemic, and factors such as high energy costs, geopolitical tensions, and growing competitive pressure from non-European imports continue to weigh on demand. In Italy, the European Union's second-largest steel producer after Germany, companies in the supply chain are undergoing a transition phase that requires significant investments in energy efficiency, digitalization, and decarbonization. At the same time, strengthening strategic sectors such as construction, infrastructure, energy, and advanced manufacturing could help sustain demand in the coming years. Made in Steel is the international conference and exhibition dedicated to the steel industry. It is organized by siderweb - the steel community alongside Fiera Milano. Made in Steel is a conference and exhibition. It offers opportunities for business and reflection, networking and learning. It is both an exhibition showcase and a cultural hub that, with conferences, forums, and roundtables, aims to foster competitive collaboration and the exchange of information, essential elements for business growth. Since 2023, Made in Steel has been certified for sustainable event design and management according to the ISO20121 standard. siderweb - The Steel Community is the only online publication in Italy dedicated entirely to the steel industry. It is a point of reference for industry professionals, thanks to its simple style, focus on in-depth analysis, and objectivity. Since 2009, it has been tracking the prices of raw materials and steel products on the national market every week, now numbering over 60, using a method certified by the Laboratory of Statistics, Data, Methods, and Systems at the University of Brescia. Since 2022, it has published five weekly indices for scrap, carbon steel, long and flat products, and stainless steel. Since 2005, it has organized Made in Steel, the international Conference & Exhibition dedicated to the steel industry, and structured its contents: conferences, interviews, and outlooks.

FASTENER FAIR ITALY 2026: less than a month before the start, the sector is present with over 200 confirmed exhibitors.

With less than a month to go until the opening, Fastener Fair Italy 2026 is already boasting impressive numbers: over 200 exhibiting companies have confirmed their participation in the fifth edition of the event, scheduled for June 24 and 25 at CityLife – Allianz MiCo in Milan. Returning exhibitors include Achilles Seibert, Ambrovit, Bontempi VIBO, Bralo Italia, DIV GROUP, Fastbolt, Flaig + Hommel, Inox Viti, Milani Enrico, Profiroll Technologies, R+FK Schulte, Rotor Clip, Strubl, The Magni Group, and Yuyao Alfirste Hardware, a concrete sign of the industry's confidence in the event. A point of reference for manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, and end users, the trade show covers the entire fastening systems supply chain: from fasteners and bolts (both industrial and construction) to assembly and installation systems, through production technologies, storage and distribution equipment, and information and communication services. This broad scope is designed to reflect the transversality of a sector that touches virtually every industrial segment. "We can't wait to open the doors to this fifth edition. The exhibitors' response confirms that, even in a challenging time for the European industry, the value of direct contact remains irreplaceable: this is where the ideas, partnerships, and opportunities that drive the market are born," says Stephanie Cerri, Events Director of Fastener Fair Italy. The fastening systems industry is undergoing profound transformation. The pressures of recent years, from geopolitical tensions to raw material volatility to the redefinition of supply chains, have pushed manufacturers and suppliers to accelerate the adoption of more efficient and resilient solutions. The results are visible: fastening systems integrated with sensors for real-time performance monitoring, new alloys and composite materials that combine lightness and strength, increasingly automated production lines where digitalization is no longer a future goal but a concrete reality. In this scenario, direct contact with manufacturers and innovators is valuable beyond any catalog or technical sheet. With approximately 3,700 professionals expected to attend, Fastener Fair Italy 2026 offers the concentration of expertise, products, and decision-makers needed to navigate a rapidly evolving market. The exhibitor directory, already available online, allows you to plan your visit in advance, identify the most relevant suppliers, and arrange targeted meetings. To support the event's visibility, a consolidated network of international media partners—Expometals, Fasten.it, Fastener + Fixing Magazine, Fastener World, Galvanotecnica, and Italy Export, among others—help keep the global industry community connected well beyond the two-day event. Buy your ticket and meet the main exhibitors of screws, bolts, and fastening systems in Milan. Visitor information and opening hours Fastener Fair Italy 2026 will be held from June 24th to 25th, 2026, at CityLife - Allianz MiCo . Opening hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on both days of the fair. For more information, visit www.fastenerfairitaly.com Fastener Fair Italy is part of a series of trade events organized by RX for the fastener, bolt, and fixing industry, including Fastener Fair Global, the Fastener Fair brand's flagship event held in Germany, Fastener Fair India, Fastener Fair Mexico, and Fastener Fair USA. Fastener Fair Italy is also on LinkedIn and YouTube: follow us to stay updated on the latest news .

Great response to AMB 2026: Online Exhibitor Directory online

Advanced filter function making it easier to search for information / Grounds plan and AMB app contributing to efficient trade fair planning and visitAll the companies exhibiting at AMB 2026 have been included in the Online Exhibitor Directory on the AMB website, the contents of which can now be filtered according to area of application. Visitors can use this filter to search for themes and applications, with only a few clicks required to find exhibitors, their special areas of interest and the participating experts. These special areas include automotive and vehicle construction, the processing of materials, digitalisation and artificial intelligence, electronics manufacturing, maintenance and service, the recycling economy and sustainability, aerospace engineering, medical technology, defence and defence technology, as well as tool construction and mouldmaking.Trade fair programme at a glance: Themed grounds planStuttgart’s trade fair grounds will be once again clearly structured according to the AMB 2026 themes and therefore particularly easy for visitors to navigate. The halls have been divided into the following areas: Precision Tools are in the L-Bank Forum (Hall 1) and the Ceratizit Halle (Hall 3). Grinding, Gear-Cutting, Inscription and Surface Technology are in Hall 5. Machine Tools and Production Equipment with a focus on Rotating will be found in the Mahle Halle (Hall 4), while the spotlight is on Milling in Hall 7, Hall 9 and the Paul Horn Halle (Hall 10).Hall 9 will also be home to Measurement and Testing Technology, as well as Quality Assurance, while Hall 7 will feature Erosion. Automation and Power Transmission Equipment, as well as Drive Elements, are in the Oskar Lapp Halle (Hall 6). Providers of Software, Digitalisation and Control Systems will be bundled in and before Hall 2 of the ICS International Congress Center Stuttgart. Components, Assemblies and Operating Materials are in the Alfred Kärcher Halle (Hall 8).Most of the programme and special areas will be concentrated in the foyer of the east entrance (Entrance East) which, in combination with the conveniently connected halls, will make it easier for visitors to get their bearings and optimally explore the event. And anyone looking to plan their visit beforehand can now access the hall plans online, which include a full listing of the companies exhibiting. The grounds plan is also available to download on the AMB website.AMB app: All the information you need in an applicationThe popular AMB app has been updated for 2026 and contains all the key information about the event. Visitors can use this app to conveniently access all exhibiting companies in their respective categories, the products and accompanying event programme. The app also includes hall plans with location tracking, as well as the latest news from exhibitors. This app is not only indispensable for any trade fair preparations, but also adds to the experience in the halls and helps guests make the most of their visit. The AMB app is now available to download from the App Store.AMB 2026 occupying all of Stuttgart’s ten trade fair hallsWith a motto boasting “Where metal comes alive”, AMB 2026 remains a driving force for the industry: demand from exhibitors remains high and, as was the case in 2024, all ten trade fair halls on the grounds of Messe Stuttgart are once again fully occupied. “Despite the economic challenges, which have also been felt by the exhibitors, it is clear to see that AMB remains a flagship event for the metal cutting industry and Stuttgart an attractive location for business and personal networking opportunities,” emphasises Romy Arnold, Project Manager for AMB.About AMBAMB has presented the highlights of the international metalworking industry since 1982. “Where metal comes alive”: AMB will also be a fixed date in the industry’s diary in 2026, taking place from 15 to 19 September. AMB is the marketplace and meeting point for the metal cutting industry where the latest products, technologies, innovations, services and concepts are presented in all their forms. AMB is supported by the VDMA Precision Tools Association, the VDMA Software and Digitalisation Association and the German Machine Tool Builders’ Association (VDW).

IVS 2026 concludes with record numbers: 20,400 visitors from 72 countries

Bergamo confirms its position as an international reference point for the industrial valve and flow control sector. Giovanna Ricuperati, President of Confindustria Bergamo: "A turning point that marked a leap in quality and raised the Fair's international profile." Paolo Agnelli, President of Promoberg: "Goal achieved: ever-increasing attention to a cutting-edge sector, offering significant business and networking opportunities." See you at the Bergamo Fair from May 16 to 18, 2028, for the seventh edition of the Summit. The sixth edition of IVS 2026 - Industrial Valve Summit , the most important international event dedicated to industrial valve technologies and flow control solutions, concluded on May 21st with record numbers. The event, sponsored by Confindustria Bergamo and Promoberg, took place at the Bergamo Fairgrounds from May 19th to 21st, 2026. The event organizers have announced that the seventh edition of IVS will take place at the Bergamo Fair from May 16 to 18, 2028. A record-breaking edition IVS 2026 concluded with a final influx of 20,400 visitors from 72 countries . The audience, representing all five continents, recorded a 36% increase in attendance compared to the fifth edition of the Summit, when the city of Bergamo attracted 15,000 guests. The stars of IVS 2026 were the 420 exhibitors (+30% compared to the 2024 edition) from 20 countries: in addition to Italy, there were also Spain, Germany, France, the UK, USA, the Czech Republic, Poland, the Netherlands, Portugal, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Croatia, Finland, Ireland, Mexico, South Africa, Turkey, and the UAE. The international component proved to be very vibrant, accounting for over 25% of the total exhibitors. The duration of the event has also been expanded, the first edition lasting three days , and the IVS scientific program , a space that over the years has increasingly consolidated itself as a forum for exchange where change can be interpreted and the latest technological innovations and new challenges in the sector can be explored in depth. IVS 2026 organized 68 events (30% more than the 52 events in 2024) including conferences, round tables, and lectures around six main thematic areas , with a focus on artificial intelligence and nuclear energy . In a phase marked by geopolitical tensions , the Summit took on an even more important role as a moment of alignment and interpretation of scenarios . The event also expanded its exhibition space, covering over 21,400 square meters —approximately 40% more than the previous edition—divided into four pavilions. These figures demonstrate how IVS has established itself as a key event for the entire global supply chain related to industrial valves and flow control. The Prometeia Observatory The Oil&Gas Valve Industry in Italy 2026 During the Summit, the IVS-Prometeia Observatory , The Oil & Gas Valve Industry in Italy 2026 , was presented. This report provided a snapshot of the current state of the Italian industry, a sector of excellence for Made in Italy and a leader in Europe. The report, produced with the contribution of the Confindustria Bergamo research department, provided a snapshot of the Italian industrial valve industry, which confirms its position as a key segment of national manufacturing and a point of excellence in the European competitive landscape . As stated in the document, with over 146 companies, 10,000 employees , and a turnover of over €3.8 billion , the Italian industrial valve industry remains a strategic sector of the national mechanical engineering industry . Furthermore, Italy is the leading European producer of oil and gas valves , with a share of nearly 40% of the entire EU production. Heavily concentrated in Lombardy , particularly in the Bergamo area, the local sector generates nearly 70% of the sector's national turnover . In 2025, Italian exports of Oil & Gas valves exceeded 4 billion euros (+5.4%) , driven mainly by Western Europe and North America, consolidating Italy as the third largest exporter in the world in the sector , behind China and Germany, with a global share of 9.9% . Since 2020, the global oil and gas valve market has seen a progressive shift in demand toward North America and the Middle East and North Africa , among the energy sector's key growth areas. Italian companies have effectively embraced this transformation, strengthening their presence in high-value markets. Meanwhile, Asia has gradually lost its share of Italian exports, and Western Europe, despite a slowdown, remains a key market. In 2025, Italy outperformed its competitors in 38 markets , equal to 44% of global imports of Oil & Gas valves. Its performance in high-growth markets remains particularly significant, where it gained share in 18 expanding destinations , which alone are worth over 30% of global imports. Synergies and partnerships The synergies with ICE, AVR ANIMA, Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo, and UNIDO ITPO Italy significantly boosted the international attendance. IVS also signed agreements with BVAA, Fluidex, SPAP, CzechTrade, Evolen, CEIR, SPE, and ESA, including through the presence of country pavilions. These partnerships attracted international delegations composed of institutional representatives, entrepreneurs, decision-makers, speakers, and specialized operators to the fair. The organizers invited qualified buyers from leading end-user and EPC sectors: a panel of attendees who interacted with operators from across the energy sector, fostering moments of exchange and discussion. This context opened up new opportunities for entry and consolidation in emerging markets, including Africa, characterized by a growing population and expanding energy demand, making it an area of ​​growing interest for the development of the supply chain. Targeted matchmaking activities provided a further opportunity for foreign delegations attending the fair to meet with stakeholders in the broader Oil & Gas supply chain. The statements Giovanna Ricuperati , President of Confindustria Bergamo , commented: " This was a turning point for IVS - Industrial Valve Summit, marking a qualitative leap, giving the event a markedly international profile, both in terms of exhibitors and visitors. At the same time, participation in the scientific and technical in-depth programs continued to grow. These figures establish the event as a leading event for the sector and confirm the importance of a careful approach to enhancing supply chains, which can also be applied to other industrial excellences in the area." Paolo Agnelli , President of Promoberg , added: " The 2026 edition further highlighted the strategic importance of a trade fair strongly desired and supported by Promoberg in conjunction with Confindustria, an event capable of promoting a supply chain of excellence on an international level. IVS has fully achieved its goal of drawing ever greater attention to a cutting-edge sector, developing significant business opportunities while also providing unique opportunities for discussion and in-depth scientific and technological learning. The growth recorded this year, combined with the high quality of the companies and the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from buyers and operators, confirms the value of the project. The Summit represents the flagship event in the internationalization process of Promoberg and Fiera di Bergamo. We are strengthening synergies with the local area and international players, while also developing new events to position our hub and its activities at the heart of one of the most important macro-regions in the world ." Francesco Apuzzo , President of Valve Campus , stated: " IVS 2026 marks an important step in the evolution of the event and, in particular, in the value of its technical and scientific contribution to the industrial valve supply chain. The fair was attended by highly qualified professionals, end users, EPCs, companies, universities, and international experts who shared operational experiences, application cases, and high-profile know-how. The scientific program confirmed an increase in the quantity of content, its depth, and its ability to address issues that are crucial to the sector today. The caliber of the speakers involved also confirms how IVS is now recognized as an authoritative space with a pragmatic and application-oriented approach. It is this consistency, maintained over time, that has allowed the event to consolidate its identity and grow year after year without losing its connection to the real needs of the market. Indeed, the direct relationship between industry, end users, and technical expertise today represents one of the key factors in the event's solidity and international recognition."

From May 19th, overhead crane operator's license will be mandatory in all companies.

Aisem: "There's a risk of production shutdowns for some companies. It's necessary to ensure more adequate time and effective training support tools." Starting May 19, overhead crane operators in Italy, a professional category employing over half a million people, will also be required to be trained in accordance with the 2025 State-Regions Agreement (ASR 2025). Without this training, required by specific regulations, it will be impossible to practice the profession. Incidentally, the Ministry of Labor lists the May 19 date on its website, although based on the publication date of the ASR 2025 in the Official Journal, compliance effectively begins on May 25. This discrepancy in dates is creating uncertainty among operators regarding safety, an issue on which uncertain interpretations should not exist. Before the introduction of the new Agreement, training on the use of equipment such as overhead cranes was already required by the Consolidated Law on Occupational Safety (Legislative Decree no. 81/2008), but the choice of training program remained at the discretion of the employer . With the new Agreement, however, overhead cranes have been included in the list of work equipment for which specific, standardized, and predefined training is mandatory—both in content and in terms of hours—as is already the case, for example, for forklifts. However, significant critical issues have emerged in the practical implementation of ASR 2025. The timeframe allowed for compliance has proven too short given the vast number of companies involved. According to estimates by AISEM , the Italian Association of Lifting, Elevation, and Handling Systems affiliated with Anima Confindustria, over 150,000 overhead cranes are currently in operation in Italy, each operated and managed by different operators within the company. This creates a difficult-to-manage paradox: by law, all overhead cranes used by operators without adequate training, i.e., in line with the provisions of the ASR 2025, must be stopped, with serious operational repercussions for many companies. AISEM President Massimiliano Bariola comments: "The introduction of mandatory licensing for overhead crane operators raises regulatory and institutional controversies. The distinction between the previously required training and the current mandatory requirement, with standards set by interinstitutional agreements, creates uncertainty and difficulties of interpretation for businesses. It should also be considered that some companies may not yet be aware of this new requirement, given the short timeframe between the announcement of the requirement and the entry into force of the regulation. Given the large number of operators involved ," Bariola continues, " AISEM had asked the institutions for at least five years to complete the training courses, but this request was not granted. It is therefore necessary for the competent authorities to collaborate to ensure more adequate time and effective training support tools, in order to reconcile safety and production continuity." Matteo Frigo , lifting group leader within Aisem, emphasizes: "The operational difficulties in implementing mandatory training are evident and shared by the operators themselves. There is also a real risk of short-lived or poorly structured training courses being organized, which do not follow the correct required training path . We remind you that Aisem and its member companies are accredited training organizations , in full compliance with the provisions of the State-Regions agreement. At this time, open dialogue between regulatory bodies, companies, and trade associations is needed to prevent a measure designed to protect safety from becoming an obstacle to regular work activities. Aisem will continue to carefully monitor the evolution of the situation, confirming its commitment to complying with safety regulations and industrial development needs." AISEM is the Anima federated association that brings together the best national businesses for the construction and distribution of material handling, lifting, and hoisting machinery. It represents over 80% of the entire national production, approximately 40% of which is exported. ANIMA Confindustria is the trade organization within Confindustria that represents companies in the mechanical and related sectors, a sector that employs 224,000 people, generates a turnover of €59.1 billion, and will account for approximately 60% of exports in 2025 (Anima Research Office 2025 forecasts). The macro-sectors represented by ANIMA are: construction and infrastructure; material handling and logistics; food production; energy production; industrial production; and safety and environment.