Eurozone in the economic doldrums due to weak global demand and political turmoil
![IHS Markit said the gloomy conditions had knocked business confidence on the Continent.](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2019/05/23/19/13875842-7064209-image-m-3_1558636033797.jpg)
IHS Markit said the gloomy conditions had knocked business confidence on the Continent.
Weak global demand and political turmoil continue to pummel the eurozone's manufacturing industry, a closely-watched survey revealed.
IHS Markit said the gloomy conditions had knocked business confidence on the Continent.
Its latest index of economic activity nudged up to 51.6 this month from 51.5 in April, but was below economists' expectations. Anything above 50 indicates growth.
Problems have included trade restrictions under President Trump, and a slump in demand for diesel cars due to concerns over pollution.
Chris Williamson, of IHS Markit, said the figures suggest the eurozone will eke out growth of just 0.2 per cent this quarter.
He added: 'The eurozone economy remained becalmed in the doldrums in May, adding to signs that only modest growth will be achieved.
A renewed deterioration in optimism about the year ahead suggests that the business situation could deteriorate further in coming months.
'Worries reflected concerns over lower economic growth forecasts, signs of weaker sales and rising geopolitical uncertainty, with escalating trade wars and auto-sector woes commonly cited.'
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