SMT Scharf AG, a leading supplier of transport solutions for underground mining, has revised its forecast for the 2026 financial year downward, citing lower investment activity in coal mining and tunnel logistics as well as the unexpected termination of a tunnel project in the Middle East. The announcement, reported via NEWMEDIAWIRE, signals continued pressure on the mining equipment sector and raises questions about the pace of recovery in key end markets.
For the first nine months of 2026, the company reported preliminary consolidated revenue of EUR 51.5 million, down sharply from EUR 70.9 million in the same period of 2025. Operating earnings (EBIT) fell to EUR 0.0 million from EUR 2.4 million a year earlier. The decline was driven primarily by a significant drop in new systems business, as customers in coal mining and tunnel logistics held back on capital expenditures. In addition to lower contribution margins from reduced revenue, third-quarter results were hit by EUR 0.6 million in non-recurring charges related to provisions for the terminated tunnel project.
Against this backdrop, the Managing Board now expects consolidated revenue for 2026 to range between EUR 75 million and EUR 85 million, down from its previous guidance of EUR 95 million to EUR 115 million. EBIT is projected to come in between EUR -0.5 million and EUR -1.5 million, compared with the earlier forecast of EUR 1 million to EUR 2 million.
CEO Longjiao Wang said the company remains focused on executing its strategy and expanding its business through an extended product portfolio. He pointed to targeted sales partnerships, including with the CFH Group in Kazakhstan and South Africa, and ongoing development of the electromobility product portfolio with selected partners. The company’s 19-seat personnel carrier and 8-tonne cargo vehicle have already received MA certification in China, confirming their suitability for safe use in potentially explosive underground environments.
The revised guidance matters because it highlights the cyclical nature of the mining equipment market and the vulnerability of even established suppliers to sudden project cancellations and delayed customer investment. SMT Scharf’s ability to advance its strategic initiatives—particularly in electromobility and international sales—will be critical to offsetting near-term weakness. The full quarterly report as of 30 September 2026 is scheduled for publication on 29 October 2026. Further information about the SMT Scharf Group can be found at www.smtscharf.com.
