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Panorama

The VDMA Mining Equipment Association has reported that despite the global economic downturn, 2009 has seen a 10% increase in turnover, approximately €560 million, across the German mining equipment manufacturing sector making it one of the best years on record.

The total turnover of German mining equipment manufacturers for 2009 is expected to be around €4 billion. The reasons for this increase are the high level of orders in 2008 and the successful opening of new markets especially in Central and South America.

Dr. Paul Rheinländer, chairman of the VDMA said “Our intensive market development was highly successful. The companies succeeded in balancing the decrease in turnover in the traditional sales markets, and many of them even grew during the crisis. Mining equipment manufacturers expect an increase in turnover from sales to Central America somewhere in the region of 110% to €55 million, and in South America by 100% to €52 million.

A 10% turnover increase is also expected for the mining market in foreign countries. Despite a decrease by 35% to €235 million, Russia is still the biggest sales market for German manufacturers. However, due to uncertainties concerning development in the country, Russian banks were very reluctant to grant credits. Companies tried to help their customers with regards to financing. "This is however not easy", said Dr. Rheinländer. For the coming year a further decrease is expected.

Dr. Rheinländer considers the situation far better in other export regions. After a decrease of sales in 2009, an increase of turnover by 25% to more than €220 million is expected for China.