Germany as a business location

Dr. Petra Strunk
Editor-in-chief AT MINERAL PROCESSING

These are very challenging times, and unfortunately there are no breaks to take a breath and reflect. One piece of bad news follows the next. What does the German economy actually look like in these increasingly negative conditions? Can we manage it all? Can we maintain our accustomed high standard of living in the future? In discussions, it is clear that the population is no longer so sure. At the MIRO Forum in Berlin at the end of November, some very clear words were spoken, especially to politicians. Approvals take too long, expert opinions are becoming more and more extensive and expensive, electricity prices pose a further challenge and, of course, the shortage of skilled workers is a problem in its own right. Above all, the transformation to a CO₂-neutral economy is a major issue.

In the article “Upswing or stagnation - Is Germany‘s economy in danger?”, Dr. Joachim Harder of OneStone Consulting Ltd. addresses precisely this topic. The article does not refer to the statements of individual politicians, but looks at the facts. He points out possible solutions, although these require politicians, i.e. legislation and investment, just as much as the economy and its ability to transform. Read this fascinating analysis from page 52 onwards.

With a view to bauma 2025, this issue of AT MINERAL PROCESSING is dedicated to further developments in the field of construction machinery in a special feature starting on page 26, where companies present current innovations such as autonomous quarry operation, special solutions for raw gravel extraction and hydrogen wheel loaders in test operation. The first two issues of AT MINERAL PROCESSING in 2025 will then be dedicated to bauma with their own special.

Dear readers, the AT MINERAL PROCESSING team wishes you a peaceful and merry Christmas and a happy 2025!