Topic
april
Business UK Economy Contracts 0.1% in April as Services Output Falls
The UK economy shrank by 0.1% in April 2026, according to the Office for National Statistics, driven by a drop in services output. Construction output rose, partially offsetting the decline. In the three months to April, the economy grew 0.7% compared with the previous quarter.
Commodities Assam's Tea Output Surge Boosts India's April Production by 5%
India's tea production increased by 5% in April 2026, reaching 104.28 million kg, primarily due to a significant output rebound in Assam. Favorable weather conditions contributed to a 36% increase in Assam's production, while other regions like West Bengal and South India saw declines.
Commodities Gold Prices Rise as Central Banks Increase Purchases
In April, central banks, particularly in Poland and China, increased their gold purchases, reversing the net selling trend from March. This shift has influenced gold prices, with significant purchases also noted from the Czech Republic.
Manufacturing Factory Output Surges 4.9% in April, Manufacturing Expands 6.2%
India's industrial production rose by 4.9% in April 2026, driven by a 6.2% expansion in manufacturing. The new IIP series with a base year of 2022-23 reflects a more comprehensive industrial activity measure.
Trade India Becomes Net Importer of Finished Steel in April
In April, India imported 0.7 million metric tons of finished steel, marking a 30.8% increase from the previous year, while exports rose by 24.9% to 0.5 million tons. China, South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and Russia were the primary exporters to India.
Commodities Global Crude Steel Output Declines Amid Geopolitical Strains
Global crude steel production decreased by 1.9% in April 2026, with significant declines in China, the Middle East, and Russia. India and the US showed growth, countering the trend.