Regional Economy report: consumer activity decreases
In February–March, consumer demand went down in most macroregions. Some of them recorded lower sales of electronics and household appliances, construction materials, and home improvement goods. Public catering outlets in many macroregions reported a decline in customer traffic. Concurrently, a number of regions saw increasing demand for new cars in March. Retailers’ short-term demand expectations improved in April.
Economic activity slowed down in most industries. Furniture manufacturers in Central Russia and ferrous metallurgy enterprises in the North-West reduced output amid cooling demand. Strong demand and investment in expanding production capacity helped ramp up the output of fertilisers in the South.
Price growth barely changed in March vs February, remaining elevated.
More details are available in the April issue of the report Regional Economy: Commentaries by Bank of Russia Main Branches. The special topics of this issue include labour market performance by sector and region, tourism and passenger transport, as well as the sowing campaign of 2026.