Manufacturing is a fundamental factor of the European economy. It has huge potential for generating wealth, jobs and better quality of life. The Virtual Manufacturing concept with new manufacturing technologies has been seen a key element for mastering the challenges coming from the other developed and developing economies.

Virtual Manufacturing is based on the high level usage of ICT in Product Processes including simulation based design, and also on the implementation of Enterprise Networks and Collaborative Design approach. It will bring possibilities to develop the competitiveness of manufacturing in Europe.