Europe dominates the world in the following products:
Ferrous and non-ferrous metal production and processing
Metal products
Petroleum
Coal
Cement
Chemicals
Pharmaceuticals
Aerospace
Rail transportation equipment
Passenger and commercial vehicles
Construction equipment
Industrial equipment
Shipbuilding
Electrical power equipment
Machine tools and automated manufacturing systems
Electronics and telecommunications equipment
Fishing
Food and beverage processing
Furniture
Paper
Textiles
Tourism
In the recession marred years, the industrial growth rate constricted to -9.8% and the effect spilled across the geography triggering higher unemployment rate at 9.3% according to the 2009 estimates.
Germany is the most developed economy of the European Union and is the largest exporter. The main commodities that Germany industry specializes in are engineering and precision products. Automobiles and aviation industry is another huge sector.
Italy is famous for its food products, fashion, car and all of them contribute in the country’s exports as well.
Switzerland contributes through its pharmaceuticals and chocolates. Being a medical provider, the country has good relationships with almost all the nations. Switzerland is also famous for its financial services and banking systems.
France contributes through its agricultural products and food items such as cheese, wines and also boasts of a healthy automotive industry. Fashion is another highlight of this country.
The UK industry sector contributes in automotive industry, software as well as financial services. Agriculture is another strong point.
The largest country in Europe, Russia remains the largest exporter of oil, heavy machinery, raw materials and food stuffs.
Such contributions from across the Europe industry sectors contribute towards high volume of exports and generate the need for imports as well. It is for this reason that Europe remains the largest trading continent in the world.