Publications

With poor demand, on-going pressure on prices and a high number of insolvencies, the construction sector in Belgium is going through difficult times.

Vietnam is extremely export-driven, specialising in textiles and footwear. The economy is shifting towards higher value added sectors such as electronics.

After 3.1% growth in 2014, Singapore’s economic growth is expected to accelerate to 3.4% in 2015, driven by investment; among other things, in its infrastructure.

Malaysia’s business environment is considered to be far more favourable than that of its regional neighbours, apart from Singapore, and the financial sector is strong.

After a disappointing 5.1% in 2014, Indonesia’s economic growth is expected to accelerate by around 6% in 2015.

As in 2013 and 2014, fierce competition means that the Dutch construction sector is still affected by price wars, leading to on-going pressure on margins.

India’s rebound is expected to be driven by the resumption of stalled infrastructure projects, high investment, urbanisation, the improvement of the business environment and structural reforms.

Although economic growth is slowing, the business environment is generally stable. The challenge for the Chinese authorities is to implement reforms to reduce the vulnerabilities in the economy.

The Netherlands is the second largest exporter of food and agricultural products. The weakening of the euro gave a boost to further export growth.

Despite some problems, the Italian food sector benefits from its non-cyclical nature, its large and varied client base and a strong export performance.