About VDMA India
VDMA India is the Indian representative office of the German Engineering Federation (VDMA – Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau), one of the largest industrial associations in Europe.
Established in 1999, VDMA India promotes and supports German mechanical engineering companies in India by:
Facilitating business development and networking between Indian and German industries
Organizing technical seminars, industry forums, and delegation visits
Supporting members in navigating the Indian business environment
Promoting technology collaboration and trade relations
With offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore, VDMA India plays a key role in strengthening Indo-German industrial cooperation across sectors like manufacturing, automation, machine tools, process engineering, and more.
Navigating Imports & Distribution in India
Supported by Maier Vidorno Altios, the Supply Chain Management (SCM) Report 2025 offers a comprehensive analysis of India’s evolving trading landscape and its implications for global companies. Drawing from in-depth interviews, sectoral case studies, and insights from operational experts, the report decodes the dynamics of entering, operating, and scaling within India’s complex import and distribution framework.
With India now ranked as the 4th largest economy in the world, foreign firms are reevaluating their market entry and distribution strategies. This report offers guidance on how to localize effectively, manage operational risks, and build resilient, future-ready supply chains.
India’s Supply Chain Shift
The Indian logistics and supply chain ecosystem is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Once considered a cost-heavy function, supply chain operations are now recognized as a strategic differentiator for companies expanding into India. Fueled by digital transformation, infrastructure investments under the PM Gati Shakti initiative, and streamlined customs reforms, India is positioning itself as a global logistics hub. As per the report, policy shifts like RoDTeP and the National Logistics Policy are simplifying trade and reducing friction for exporters and importers alike.
Companies with subsidiaries in India are already leveraging local warehousing, real-time ERP systems, and last-mile delivery platforms to drive efficiency. Conversely, those relying solely on importer-distributor models face greater visibility gaps, regulatory hurdles, and slower decision-making capabilities.
Key Findings: Challenges, Models & Growth Enablers
The SCM Report 2025 reveals key trends shaping how global firms succeed in India. A majority (80–90%) of Indian employees in foreign firms are in sales roles, emphasizing the value of strong local presence. 71% of German machinery firms use subsidiary-led models for better control, while newer entrants still rely on importers. Companies with local legal entities and ERP systems enjoy greater visibility and agility. Talent shortages in technical sales and logistics persist, cited by 65% of firms. Over 60% are expanding into Tier-2/3 cities, localizing services and logistics to better serve India’s diverse market needs.
Partnering for Growth: Maier Vidorno Altios as Your Trusted Supply Chain Advisor
As global companies pursue sustainable growth in India, success clearly favors those investing in localization, digital tools, and strong partnerships. With over 25 years of experience, Maier Vidorno Altios offers end-to-end support—from market entry and operations to compliance and HR advisory. The SCM Report 2025 underscores that early investment in supply chain planning and local execution is key to expanding distribution, reducing costs, and capturing India’s trade potential.
VDMA India & Maier Vidorno Altios – Strategic Partnership
VDMA India has partnered with Maier Vidorno Altios to support German and international engineering companies in navigating the complex Indian market.
As an official HR and Supply Chain Partner to VDMA India, Maier Vidorno Altios plays a strategic role in helping member companies succeed operationally in India by offering:
HR & Talent Acquisition Support
Maier Vidorno Altios assists VDMA members in:
Hiring local leadership and technical talent
Managing HR operations compliantly
Setting up and scaling local teams efficiently
Supply Chain & Distribution Consulting
Maier Vidorno Altios supports members with:
Optimizing import and distribution models
Identifying and managing reliable logistics and warehousing partners
Navigating Indian regulatory and compliance challenges in SCM
With over two decades of experience supporting European businesses in India, Maier Vidorno Altios helps VDMA member companies reduce risk and improve speed-to-market across their HR, SCM, Finance, Legal, and Operational needs.
