The world's premier trade fair for construction machinery and mining equipment has commenced in Munich, Germany. The exhibition draws industry experts and visitors from around the globe who are eager to explore the latest advancements in machinery and technology. China's significant presence at this triennial event underscores its crucial position in the global construction machinery industry. Natalie Carney reports. 

The logistics required to transport some of the world's largest construction and mining machinery to the grounds of Munich's main exhibition space is truly mind blowing. So too is much of the industry's latest equipment. For China's largest construction machinery manufacturer, XCMG, BAUMA provides an important opportunity to showcase their latest electricity powered and digital technology, specifically developed for the European market.

YANG DONGSHENG, Chairman, XCMG Group "We worked with Schwing Setter in Germany to showcase electric pump trucks and electric mixer trucks. The chassis of the electric mixer trucks are manufactured by XCMG. We're also showing a 60-ton hybrid all-terrain crane. It's the first time this crane is being introduced to the European market. We have one goal, to become an important participant in Europe's green, intelligent and AI plus construction equipment sector. And to be a reliable, successful supporter and trusted partner for European businesses."

XCMG is growing into one of the industry's most globally recognisable and important brands for high quality equipment, with exports to over 190 different countries.

LAMIH ODABASI, Director, Odabasi Machinery Turkey & Iraq "There was a big earthquake in Türkiye. After the earthquake, a lot of construction houses started to be built. Right now, we sell a lot of products to the construction sector. You would say excavators, those types of products are needed a lot in Türkiye right now. That's why I think this trend will grow and progress."

EDWARD CAHYADI, Director, PT Gaya Maker Group Indonesia "Compared to other brands I believe that XCMG has the widest product range from smallest to biggest and they have everything, you name it – a one stop solution."

The Covid-19 pandemic sparked a decline in the construction and mining industries worldwide. It's only now starting to see some recovery.

NATALIE CARNEY, Munich "The global construction industry has been facing challenges over recent years, from supply chain disruptions to economic factors. But exhibitors here are optimistic about an uptick for the future of their industry, saying it's even more reason to be present at BAUMA 2025."

For the Italian manufacturer of telescopic handlers, Merlo – being at the world's largest construction trade fair is a must to reignite growth.

HENRICH CLEWING, Managing Director, Merlo Germany "We feel the market is more volatile and more uncertain to certain because visibility is still very important. We have so many different possibilities today to talk about products, but I think the most important thing is still the personal contact people want to see and they want to touch the product."

Despite the industry's challenges, China has become the world's top exporter of construction equipment by incorporating the latest digital and renewable technologies while understanding what global markets need. Natalie Carney, CGTN, Munich.