德媒：中企正攻击德国工业的最后堡垒

Core Insights - The article discusses the strategic challenge posed by Chinese companies to Germany's mechanical engineering sector, which is considered the last major stronghold of German industry [1][4]. Group 1: Competitive Landscape - A study by Infront reveals that over 60% of European mechanical manufacturers feel they have lost or will lose their technological, quality, or brand advantages by the end of this decade [4]. - 75% of European mechanical manufacturers view competition from Chinese rivals as the "most pressing strategic challenge" globally [4]. - Chinese competitors are increasingly replacing German products in various sectors, such as Sany's forklifts overtaking Jungheinrich's models and Mindray's medical equipment competing with Siemens Healthineers [7]. Group 2: Industry Dynamics - The competitive edge of German mechanical engineering is declining due to late product launches, high prices, and insufficient user focus, leading to a loss of value associated with high-end European products [5][10]. - The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift, allowing Chinese manufacturers to capture market share as German companies cut production [10]. - Chinese executives perceive the current state of European mechanical engineering as lacking practicality, speed, and scalable innovation [10]. Group 3: Strategic Recommendations - German companies need to adopt more flexible business models and continuously adjust their product range and quality to compete effectively [12]. - Decisions aimed at the Chinese market may increasingly need to be made within China, as exemplified by Volkswagen's ability to independently develop and produce vehicles for the Chinese market [12]. - The value of the "Made in Germany" label is diminishing, while "Made in China" is becoming synonymous with innovation, cost-effectiveness, and new designs [12].