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
A new study predicts that e-fuels have great potential for achieving climate neutrality in the transportation sector. Critics, however, warn of major technical hurdles, financing problems and new dependencies on suppliers.
By Nico Beckert
In a letter to the European Commission, Germany and four other EU member states are calling for extended transition rules for the production of green hydrogen. Otherwise, they argue, the hydrogen target for industry will be in jeopardy.
By Manuel Berkel and Markus Grabitz
The German government’s new Chemical Industry Agenda has drawn criticism from industry and environmentalists. Businesses are calling for more relief. Climate activists criticize the inadequate framework for the transition. There are inconsistencies in the climate protection agreements.
By Nico Beckert
Friedrich Merz has praised China’s work ethic. But the long hours worked by Chinese employees have nothing to do with patriotism. In reality, millions of them are trapped in precarious jobs.
By Marcel Grzanna
Ethiopia has been negotiating its accession to the WTO since 2003 to strengthen its economy and attract foreign investors. The country hopes this will lead to greater industrialization and better integration into the global economy.
By Arne Schütte
The Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) is intended to strengthen Europe's industry in the face of China's economic policies: a step in the right direction, according to two researchers at the Kiel Institute. However, to have a real impact, it needs broader reach and a more focused sectoral strategy.
By Johannes Binder and Finn Ole Semrau
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
German companies increasingly view China as a difficult market to predict. At the same time, India is coming into focus as an attractive alternative thanks to a new trade agreement.
By Amelie Richter
Europe still faces major hurdles in decarbonizing its industry. According to a recent report, insufficient grid investment and the slow development of the hydrogen economy are holding back progress. It calls for the Clean Industrial Deal not to be watered down.
By Nico Beckert
