In its 91st edition at the end of the year, the German Shipbuilding and Ocean Industries Association (VSM) looks back on a very dynamic year.

VSM Managing Director Dr Reinhard Lüken assesses 2025 in its newsletter: "A wild year is coming to an end. In Germany, early elections are followed by rapid coalition negotiations and a swift formation of a new government. In the USA The new president breaks one of his promises on his second day in office, as the war in the Ukraine is still raging unabated more than 300 days later. The war in the Gaza Strip on the other hand, seems to have subsided, even if peace in the region remains fragile. We are following with concern an American culture war in which democratic institutions are coming under increasing pressure. The unconventional foreign and trade policy of the American president towards both friends and foes is causing additional irritation. China on the other hand, seems to be reliably pressing ahead with its course for the reorganisation of the world order along its own lines. Will Europe find answers to the triple challenge of an aggressive imperial Russia, an all-smothering China and an Atlantic partner on the wrong track?

The new German government, still endowed with considerable financial room for manoeuvre by the old parliament, is showing a pleasantly clearer European and foreign policy profile. There is no way around advancing its own capabilities in close cooperation with like-minded partners and reducing its susceptibility to blackmail from difficult contemporaries. Unfortunately, the German government is experiencing increasing difficulties in reaching consensus within its own ranks. In view of the ever-increasing global challenges, the issues dominating the German debate sometimes seem more than absurd. Only through good communication and constructive action by key stakeholders will it be possible to focus on the really important issues and keep polarising forces in check.

The maritime industry can make an important contribution to this, as it is in a stable position with full order books and considerable growth potential in all of our key market segments. Not all sectors can claim this at the moment. Shipbuilding and marine technology from Germany is active and successful worldwide. But the industry needs better framework conditions at home in order to fully realise its growth opportunities. Only with growth can Germany get back on track and assert its influence.

By the way, we are also very pleased to continue growing as an association: 27 new members were welcomed to our circle in the first 11 months of 2025 - thank you for your trust!

2025 was an industry year with high dynamics especially in the Naval shipbuilding. And we are also looking forward to 2026 with great excitement: Will the European Maritime Industrial Strategy provide the hoped-for impetus that will also inspire national shipbuilding policy? Will we pick up momentum with the National Maritime Conference and will we be able to show this to the rest of the world at SMM? For us as an association, the following applies to both the past and the coming year: all hands on deck and staying consistently on course. We look forward to working together!"

We wish all our members, partners and friends a great end to the year, reflective holidays and a new year with lots of fresh energy and fortune.

Here you get to VSM.