The bar chart illustrates the proportion of global production accounted for by Asia, Europe, and the rest of the world from 1840 to 2000.
Overall, Asia experienced a significant decline in its global production share before gradually recovering and regaining dominance by 2000, while Europe maintained a relatively consistent share with minor changes.
In 1840, Asia dominated global production with over 50%, followed by Europe at approximately 38%, and the rest of the world at just 10%. By 1880, Asia’s contribution had dropped sharply to below 30%, the lowest among the three, while Europe slightly increased to nearly 40%, becoming the top contributor. The rest of the world also saw a surge to around 33%, surpassing Asia.
During 1920, Europe retained its leading position, while the rest of the world remained the second-largest contributor. Notably, in 1960, the rest of the world became the top producer at over 35%, although this was short-lived. By 2000, its share had dropped to 24%, the lowest among the regions. Meanwhile, Asia gradually recovered after 1880, rising to just above 30% in 1960 and reclaiming its position as the largest contributor in 2000, with over 45% of the global total.