Despite crises: Hannover Messe 2025 focuses on progress

Geopolitical framework requires decisive action

Christina Bilyk, Acting Senior Director, Investment / Canada, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) and Jayson Myers, CEO, Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen). © German Trade Fair

"Competitiveness also depends on a clear economic policy strategy," emphasizes Köckler. "In recent months, there has often been talk of geopolitical uncertainties. However, since the new US president took office, this uncertainty has turned into ruthless clarity. The USA is consistently pursuing its 'America First' policy, while China is providing massive and targeted support for its industry."

For Europe and partners such as Canada, this year's partner country of the trade fair, it is time to move closer together and resolutely push ahead with a joint geopolitical and economic strategy. "Now is the perfect time for us as a partner country," said Christina Bilyk, who is organizing the Canadian presence. "And I think we can intensify economic relations."

260 exhibitors are coming to Hanover from Canada alone. "That's a fantastic number," said trade fair boss Köckler. And it is a clear statement. "Not only is Europe moving closer together, but Europe is also moving closer together with Canada. That certainly gives everyone confidence."

After the first announcements of tariffs by Trump two months ago, there has been another significant boost, reports Jayson Myers from the Next Generation Manufacturing Canada initiative. 80 new applications have been received in the weeks since Trump took office alone. Following the problems with the USA, previously the largest trading partner, Canadian companies are now interested in finding new customers, new suppliers, new partners and new investors - especially in Europe.

Almost one in four exhibitors comes from China

Around 4,000 exhibitors from more than 60 countries are once again expected to attend the world's largest industrial show from March 31 to April 4. More than 900 companies have registered from China alone. And almost 100 companies from the USA have also announced their attendance. "Despite all the political turbulence, we don't notice any turning away from Hanover and Europe," said Köckler.

Despite the global uncertainties, the trade fair boss expects the mood at the fair to be significantly better than a year ago. The plans of the upcoming German government to invest billions in infrastructure should also contribute to this. "All the infrastructure technologies that are needed are also good for the exhibitors at Hannover Messe. We will clearly feel this at the trade fair," he said.

The trade fair will be officially opened on Sunday evening by Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD), for the first time with a speaker from the industry. Siemens CEO Roland Busch will give the opening keynote, followed by Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and representatives of the partner country Canada, who will officially open the trade fair. From Monday, the trade fair will also be open to trade visitors as usual. It is unclear whether Canada's new Prime Minister Mark Carney will also attend the opening. He only took over from Justin Trudeau in mid-March and shortly afterwards called new elections for the end of April.