Frankfurt, 22 May 2025 – VDMA Executive Director Thilo Brodtmann comments on the Plenary vote in the European Parliament on simplifying the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM):

• "It is good that the European Parliament proceeds quickly with its position on CBAM simplification. A rapid adoption of the dossier is essential; companies need sufficient time to prepare for full CBAM implementation on 1 January 2026."
• "Despite all simplifications, CBAM will become a burden for export-oriented companies in the European machinery industry sector. The costs caused by CBAM for imported intermediate products will weaken European manufacturers on international markets."
• "The switch to a mass-based de minimis approach is a welcome relief for some companies that fall outside the scope. However, for all companies that remain affected, the complexity of reporting remains high."
• "If the scope of CBAM is extended to include other components in mechanical engineering, the threshold value must also be raised so that small and medium-sized enterprises are excluded from the scope."
• "CBAM needs to be further reformed, for example by using default values that reflect actual emission levels. Companies should not be disadvantaged by having to purchase more certificates than necessary."

VDMA Executive Director Thilo Brodtmann