By Anil Taneja,
World, April 25, 2024
It is spring now. There has been a small increase in activity, but much less than what the businessmen hoped for.
Brazil, April 25, 2024
In comparative terms, the export figures for the first three months were much better than last year, but is it sustainable, the Brazilians are asking.
China, April 25, 2024
The Xiamen Stone fair in March clearly demonstrated the extent of the slowdown in local market. The purchasing of raw materials from rest of the world has shifted to premium materials. The focus on design has started but it is early days for results.
Far East, April 25, 2024
The slowdown in China is having its effects on the region. Indonesia, however, remains dynamic.
India, April 25, 2024
The stone industry in the North is positive, the local industry in the South is in serious trouble.
Latin America, April 25, 2024
Demand remains stable in most countries.
Middle East and North Africa, April 25, 2024
Construction activity is dynamic in the energy rich countries of the Gulf region. But even there most of the market has become very price sensitive.
New Central/East EU Countries, April 25, 2024
The Poles are more optimistic compared to their mood last year. Other countries in the region remain stable.
U.S.A., April 25, 2024
The prospects for lower interest rates in the months ahead have declined. It is hard to imagine a revival in construction industry while the mortgage rates continue to be around 7%. The demand is real, affordability is the main issue.
Western Europe, April 25, 2024
Business activity remains erratic, businessmen find it hard to predict how things will be in the months ahead.
