The bar chart illustrates the proportions of global production across Asia, Europe, and the rest of the world over the period between 1840 and 2000.
Overall, it is clear that Asia and Europe experienced contrasting trends, Europe peaking mid-period prior to a free fall at the end of the timeframe, and Asia declining substantially before staging a dramatic recovery. Meanwhile, the rest of the world underwent a steady expansion.
In 1840, Asia was dominant in global manufacturing, with over 50% of the total production. Despite this, it declined gradually over the next years and hit a low of 22% in 1960. In contrast, Europe’s manufacturing grew considerably during the period, starting at approximately 38% and reaching its recorded highest figure at almost 50% in 1960, introducing it as a new leader.
Over the remaining decades, both Asia and Europe witnessed a significant reversal. By the millennium, Asia made a remarkable comeback to 40%, while Europe’s production plummeted to about 28%. At the same time, the rest of the world showed an upward trend, tripling its initial figure from 10% to 30% by the end of the timeframe.