Bernard Serin, CEO of the Belgian industrial group John Cockerill, has publicly expressed significant concerns about the European economic and political climate. In recent statements, he highlighted a prevailing sense of fear in Germany, which he described as a major economy "in difficulty," creating uncertainty for the broader European industrial sector.
Serin also identified the potential return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency as a substantial risk for international business. He argued that a second Trump term could destabilize global trade and negatively impact companies like John Cockerill, which operates in over 100 countries across sectors including energy, defense, and the environment.
The CEO's warnings come as John Cockerill reports strong financial performance. The group, known for its industrial equipment and large-scale projects, has recently posted record order intakes and revenue growth, demonstrating resilience despite the geopolitical headwinds he described.
Serin's vision emphasizes the need for European industrial sovereignty and strategic autonomy to navigate these challenges. He advocates for stronger EU-level policies to support key technologies and reduce dependency on external powers, positioning his company to adapt to a more fragmented global trade environment.
