The new conservative governments are seeking closer ties with Washington without severing relations with Beijing. For Europe, this opens up new opportunities as a trade and investment partner.

The new conservative to right-wing populist governments are ideologically closer to the U.S. than their left-wing predecessors. At the same time, they are unlikely to want to do without Europe as a player between Washington and Beijing.

Geopolitics is elevating the continent’s role as a business location and trade partner. With trade agreements with Mexico and Mercosur, the EU has now positioned itself strategically.

Two months after Nicolás Maduro’s kidnapping, the people of Venezuela are hoping that Donald Trump’s US administration will lead the country out of its economic and political isolation. This presents great opportunities for German industry.

New LADW Board elected, chaired by VW Group Board Member Thomas Schmall.

The economic outlook for 2026 is stable and slightly positive. Politically, the continent is facing a change of direction due to several elections. The influence of geopolitics is likely to increase further.

The US is attempting to reassert its influence in the region in order to counter China’s massive engagement. The impact this will have on European companies remains to be seen.

LADW Focus Event at the Day of Industry (TDI) 2025.

Now more than ever: German companies are focusing on intensifying cooperation.

Because of Trump, the region will seek to expand relations with other partners. China in particular will benefit from this, but Europe also has the opportunity to strengthen cooperation.