Processing clams for export (Photo: VNA)

The BCI reached the highest point following the fourth wave of COVID-19 infections, with positive sentiment reaching 61 points, a jump of 42 points since the third quarter of 2021 after the end of lockdowns and the re-opening of normal commercial operations.

According to a survey of more than 1,200 members of EuroCham, 58% of European business leaders are anticipating economic stabilization and growth in the first quarter of 2022, while only 17% of those predict a deterioration. European businesses are also more confident about the prospects for business development in the new normal. In addition, 43% of respondents said that they plan to increase investment in the first quarter of 2022; some businesses plan to increase the number of employees, orders, and revenue.

EuroCham Chairman Alain Cany said European business leaders welcome the return to life as normal and business as usual, and in particular the easing of entrance requirements for vaccinated foreigners who live and work here.