Lack of demand continues to be holding back EU industrial growth. Recent business survey data through to October show a further drop in economic sentiment, capacity utilisation and orderbook. The main factor cited by European companies limiting production output is demand and not factors such as material or labour shortages that were an issue two years ago. Trade statistics reflect this continued weakness of European industry – particularly in Germany. However, the overall gloomy picture hides strong performance in some individual markets. This article provides commentary on the latest industrial survey figures in the context of import and export developments to key markets.
Posts tagged as “Imports”
The topic of Chinese influence in the Pacific looms large, but in general the share of China as an origin of imports in the Pacific has mostly stayed steady over the past decade as goods continue to utilise Australia and New Zealand connections. Fiji on the other hand, has increased its role as a regional distribution hub and improvements in air cargo and shipping connectivity could see further growth. This article looks at developments of imports into Pacific Island Countries, main trading partners, the role of China, and freight connectivity with a particular focus on Fiji. Analysis includes an interactive dashboard with commodity level trade between China and Pacific Island Countries.