IVAM Survey 2015

The European microtechnology industry has recently been more eager to invest than in previous years. In the economic data survey of the IVAM Microtechnology Network, almost a third of the participating companies stated that they have invested more in 2014 than in the year before. In 2015, 35.8% of the European microtechnology companies are inclined to spend more money on technology development and corporate growth.

Growing markets in Eastern Europe and China
Markets in China and Eastern Europe have become more important for the industry since 2013. Business with Russia has not abated despite the economic sanctions. Emerging markets such as India and Brazil have not developed as fast as expected.

Automotive industry back among top markets
The automotive market has become more important again for the microtechnology industry during the past two years. Automotive technology is the major target market for 11.1% of the European microtechnology companies – in 2013 this applied to just under 4%.

Does TTIP bear “more risks than opportunities”?
The European microtechnology companies appreciate the potential benefits of the free trade agreement, but they disapprove of it in its considered design. The possible benefits most often mentioned by the responding companies are an elimination of tariffs and a reduction of administrative barriers. But the companies are bothered by the differences in the patent laws of the US and Europe, which would put European companies at a disadvantage, and the uncertainties concerning investment protection – a topic which is still waiting to be negotiated.