In its monthly Chemistry + Pharmaceuticals Spotlight, the VCI examines the economic situation in the industry.
 

The German chemical industry continues to tread water, reports the German Association of the Chemical Industry (VCI). According to the data, production from January to April was 1.1 percent below the previous year's level. Order books also remain largely empty. Despite a slight upturn in prices, sales remained below the previous year's level, according to Schlaglicht. According to the report, sales remain sluggish both domestically and abroad. There are also no signs of improvement in international competitiveness. High energy prices, stifling bureaucracy, overly rigid regulations and high taxes and levies continue to weigh on the industry. According to the VCI, the outlook for business is looking better. For the first time in a year, chemical companies are more positive about the next six months. The industry is pinning its hopes primarily on domestic business, while export expectations remain subdued. In Germany, the mood within the industry has brightened recently. Now, according to the VCI, it is important that the economic policy measures announced are implemented quickly. VCI Chief Executive Wolfgang Große Entrup emphasises: ‘There is finally a spirit of optimism. The federal government is providing a breath of fresh air with tax relief and lower energy prices.’ However, the pressure remained immense. ‘The Chancellor and her cabinet must stay the course and deliver now. Then the chances of an upturn next year are really good,’ says Große-Entrup.
 
Sources:

• Press release VCI (26.6.2025)
• Photo: © VCI / Thomas Lohnes