Economic developments in Calabria in the year 2005Update

Economic activity in Calabria showed signs of recovery in the first half of 2006. The level of orders and production rose in manufacturing industry. Activity in the construction sector benefited from the progress of work on the Salerno-Reggio Calabria motorway. There was an attenuation of the slowdown in regional retail sales. Arrivals and overnight stays of foreign tourists more than offset the decline recorded in the domestic component. After decreasing in 2005, employment increased in all the main sectors of activity; the number of job-seekers declined. Lending to both households and firms continued to expand. There was an increase in the volume of deposits and, to a lesser extent, securities held at banks.