The 2026 Industry 4.0 Barometer shows China out in front as the pace-setter of digital industrial transformation, while European companies are struggling not to fall behind. But the DACH region has not been left behind entirely – above all because of one specific competitive advantage.
By Christian Domke Seidel
China is giving its booming online retail sector a new strategic direction. New guidelines shift the focus from pure growth to quality and global integration, with political steering at the center.
By Amelie Richter
While the German government says it is committed to a risk-aware approach to research cooperation with Chinese actors, critical information is often missing in practice.
By Manuel Liu
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is shaking Asia’s energy supply and driving up raw material prices dramatically. For European importers and manufacturers with operations in Asia, supply chains are becoming more expensive and less secure.
By Christina zur Nedden
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is strengthening Germany’s industrial ties to the Indo-Pacific in Singapore. Germany is looking for resilient supply chains, defense partners and strategic anchors.
By Christina zur Nedden
Reusable launch systems and tightly integrated satellite networks are China's goals for 2030. To achieve its growing ambitions in space, the cost of rocket launches must be drastically reduced.
By Jörn Petring
As an energy carrier, industrial feedstock and potential marine fuel, ammonia is set to play a major role – especially in Asia’s future energy system. German companies are among the global leaders in many of the key technologies needed to scale it.
By Christian Domke Seidel
German industry's struggle for survival calls for a change in thinking. As the automotive sector becomes less and less profitable, suppliers are turning their attention to aerospace and robotics. The Germans still have an edge. But the race against time is on.
By Christian Domke Seidel
JD.com, China’s e-commerce giant, is pushing into Germany with a promise familiar from its home market: same-day delivery. Industry insiders expect the move to reshape Germany’s online retail landscape.
By Manuel Liu and Fabian Peltsch
Donald Trump will travel to China at the end of March. The president also wants to discuss nuclear weapons. Washington fears rampant Chinese armament. However, Trump does not have a strong hand.
By Andreas Landwehr
