The Economy

Flat Global Demand for Manufactured Products Predicted

Feb. 22, 2012

While there is certainly good news in the manufacturing economy these days, the latest Global Connections trade forecast from HSBC predicts flat demand for manufactured products in the near term.

Why the tepid outlook? HSBC predicts flat demand for the next three years in Europe and North America. It notes that purchasing manager indices for global manufacturing are either slowing or contracting in Europe.

It also expects the "bedding down" of supply chains in emerging economies in Asia and Latin America as manufactured goods become traded increasingly within the region.

This reflects a broader trend where trade within these regions will grow faster than trade with the developed world.

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Steve Minter Blog | Executive Editor

Focus: Global Economy & International Trade

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An award-winning editor, Executive Editor Steve Minter covers global economic and international trade issues, tackling subject matter ranging from manufacturing trends, public policy and regulations in developed and emerging markets to global regulation and currency exchange rates. As well, he supervises content production of all IW editorial products including the magazine, IndustryWeek.com, research and informationproducts, and executive conferences.

Before joining the IW staff, Steve was publisher and editorial director of Penton Media’s EHS Today, where he was instrumental in the development of the Champions of Safety and America’s Safest Companies recognition programs.

Steve received his B.A. in English from Oberlin College. He is married and has two children.