EU chemicals industry to see improved outlook for 2006

摘要

After a temporary dip in output in 2005.Output in the EU chemicals industry(excluding pharmaceuti-cals)is expected to grow by only 1.6% in 2005,compared to 2.4% in 2004.However,next year is forecast to show a slight improvement,reaching a 1.9% growth rate.The chemicals industry is hoping for better business developments in Europe in 2006:More investments and stronger consumer confidence could contribute to a recovery of the domestic economy.In that case,the cyclical chemical business should regain momentum.Main concerns in the EU business climate,according to Cefic,are high energy prices,fear of serious consequences of social reforms and weak employment prospects.Nevertheless,