Regional Economy report: growth in business and consumer activity slows
Economic activity was expanding more slowly in December 2025–January 2026, while the dynamics varied across industries and regions.
Large government contracts supported the increase in the output of engineering products in the Volga Region and power generation equipment in the Urals, whereas the private sector reduced orders in these industries. Siberia recorded a decrease in coal production and wood processing. Central Russia reported persistently weak demand for transportation and logistics services.
After accelerating in December, the growth of consumption slowed down in January. Households’ demand for expensive goods declined in most regions. As for food retail and public catering, consumer activity was rising at a moderate pace, while buyers preferred cheaper options. The demand for tourism remained high.
This issue’s special topics are consumer and business activity and the car market.
More details are available in the February issue of the report Regional Economy: Commentaries by Bank of Russia Main Branches.