Slovakia’s Export Growth Accelerates as Automotive Sector Drives Trade Performance

Slovakia’s foreign trade gathered momentum in June 2026, with exports and imports recording their strongest year-on-year growth rates so far this year. Higher shipments of vehicles and machinery pushed exports above the €10 billion mark for the first time this year, while the country maintained a positive trade balance for the fifth consecutive month.

According to preliminary figures released by the Statistical Office of the Slovak Republic, exports increased by 8.2% year-on-year to €10.1 billion in June, while imports rose by 9.5% to €9.7 billion. Although the monthly trade surplus narrowed to €372.9 million compared with the same period last year, Slovakia continued to export more goods than it imported.

The automotive industry remained the backbone of the country’s external trade. Machinery and transport equipment, which includes motor vehicles, generated the largest contribution to export growth and continued to dominate Slovakia’s trade structure. The same category also accounted for the largest increase in imports, highlighting sustained activity across the manufacturing supply chain.

Automotive products and machinery represented more than three-fifths of Slovakia’s total exports during the month and almost half of all imports, underlining the country’s continued dependence on industrial production and vehicle manufacturing.

Trade with European Union member states remained the principal source of growth. Nearly four-fifths of Slovak exports were destined for EU markets, where shipments increased by almost 11% compared with June 2025. Imports from EU countries also expanded by more than 11%, while exports to markets outside the European Union remained broadly unchanged and imports from non-EU countries continued to grow moderately.

The country’s trade position reflected this regional pattern. Slovakia generated a substantial surplus in trade with EU member states, while trade with non-EU economies remained in deficit.

The positive trend has continued throughout the first half of 2026. Between January and June, Slovak exports increased by 2.8% to €57.5 billion, while imports rose by 2.2% to €55.8 billion. The resulting trade surplus improved to €1.7 billion, exceeding the surplus recorded during the same period last year.

The latest figures indicate that Slovakia’s export-oriented economy continues to benefit from resilient demand within the European market, with the automotive and machinery industries remaining the primary drivers of external trade despite a more challenging global economic environment.

How Global Capability Centres Are Reshaping India’s Office Real Estate

India’s office property market has entered a new phase of growth, with Global Capability Centres (GCCs) emerging as one of the strongest drivers of demand. Once established primarily to provide back-office support and business process services, these centres have evolved into strategic business hubs where multinational companies manage technology development, artificial intelligence, product engineering, research, finance and global operations.

The transformation has significantly influenced India’s commercial real estate sector. Rather than occupying office space for routine administrative functions, multinational corporations are now investing in large, long-term campuses designed to support innovation, collaboration and high-value business activities. As a result, GCCs have become one of the most important sources of demand for premium office developments across the country.

India’s Expanding GCC Ecosystem

India has established itself as the world’s leading destination for Global Capability Centres. Industry estimates indicate that the country now hosts approximately 1,800 to 2,000 GCCs, employing close to two million professionals across technology, engineering, financial services, life sciences, manufacturing and other knowledge-intensive sectors.

The sector has expanded rapidly over the past several years as multinational corporations increasingly centralise complex global functions in India. Industry forecasts suggest that the GCC ecosystem could generate annual revenues exceeding US$100 billion by the end of the decade, highlighting its growing contribution to both the national economy and the commercial property market.

This expansion has translated directly into office demand. Across India’s leading business centres, GCCs are estimated to account for around one-third or more of Grade A office leasing activity, making them one of the largest occupier groups in the country.

Why Multinational Companies Continue to Expand

Several structural factors continue to strengthen India’s position as a preferred location for Global Capability Centres.

The country’s large pool of highly skilled professionals remains one of its greatest competitive advantages. Companies are increasingly locating software development, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, engineering design and research operations in India, where specialised talent is available at scale.

Unlike earlier outsourcing models, today’s GCCs often involve long-term expansion strategies. Organisations typically lease substantial office campuses in phases, allowing them to accommodate future workforce growth while maintaining operational flexibility. This approach provides developers with greater certainty and supports sustained investment in premium office projects.

Government initiatives supporting digital infrastructure, innovation and higher education have also strengthened India’s attractiveness. The country’s expanding startup ecosystem, improving connectivity and mature technology services industry create an environment where multinational companies can integrate research, development and operational functions within a single location.

At the same time, corporate sustainability objectives are influencing location decisions. Many occupiers now prioritise energy-efficient, environmentally certified buildings that provide advanced digital infrastructure, employee wellness features and resilient operating systems. This has increased demand for modern developments in established office markets such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai, Gurugram and Noida.

Transforming India’s Office Market

The continued expansion of GCCs is changing the dynamics of India’s commercial office sector.

Large pre-commitments for office space have helped support occupancy levels in premium developments while encouraging developers to launch new Grade A projects. Stable long-term leasing has also contributed to greater rental resilience in leading office districts.

The composition of occupiers has evolved as well. In many business centres, GCCs now represent one of the largest categories of tenants, replacing the shorter leasing cycles that previously characterised portions of the office market. Longer lease agreements provide greater income stability for landlords and reduce vacancy risks.

Institutional investors have also responded positively to this trend. Office buildings occupied by multinational Global Capability Centres are increasingly viewed as attractive investment assets because of their long lease tenures, strong tenant credit profiles and predictable rental income. These characteristics have enhanced the appeal of premium commercial assets for both domestic investors and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).

Looking Ahead

Global Capability Centres are expected to remain one of the defining forces behind India’s office real estate market throughout the coming decade. As companies continue to relocate strategic business functions to India, demand is likely to extend beyond traditional technology services into advanced manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, engineering and artificial intelligence.

For developers, investors and policymakers, the continued growth of the GCC ecosystem represents more than an increase in office leasing volumes. It reflects India’s emergence as a global business and innovation hub, where commercial real estate is increasingly shaped by knowledge-intensive industries, long-term investment and sustainable workplace development.

Source: © CIJ.World India Research & Analysis Team

Poland’s Regional Economies Show Greater Confidence Despite Rising Business Costs

Business activity across Poland showed further signs of stabilisation during the summer, with companies in many regions reporting improving market conditions even as rising operating expenses continue to weigh on investment and expansion plans, according to the latest regional business survey published by Statistics Poland (GUS).

The survey indicates that confidence strengthened across much of the country, particularly among companies involved in trade and construction. Businesses in a majority of Poland’s voivodships reported a more favourable outlook than a year earlier, suggesting that economic conditions are gradually becoming more predictable after several years of volatility.

Construction companies were among the most optimistic. Many firms expect stronger demand over the coming months and anticipate improvements in workloads and overall business performance. Similar sentiment was evident across much of the wholesale sector, while businesses operating in hospitality and information technology also reported encouraging conditions in many parts of the country.

The picture remains less consistent in manufacturing, transport and parts of the retail market, where businesses continue to face a more cautious operating environment. Although confidence has improved compared with last year, many companies in these sectors remain reluctant to describe current market conditions as fully favourable.

Despite improving expectations, companies continue to identify rising business costs as one of their biggest challenges. Employment expenses remain a significant concern across most industries, while taxes and broader economic uncertainty continue to influence corporate decision-making. Businesses also expect higher energy prices to place additional pressure on operating costs during the months ahead, alongside increases in the prices of goods, services and other business inputs.

For Poland’s commercial property and construction sectors, the findings point to a market where confidence is gradually returning but financial discipline remains essential. Improving business sentiment may support future investment activity, although developers, contractors and occupiers are still likely to face higher operating costs and continued pressure on project economics until inflationary pressures ease further.

Foreign Tourism to Czech Republic Levels Off in Second Quarter

Growth in the Czech tourism sector slowed during the second quarter of 2026 as demand from international visitors levelled off after five years of continuous expansion, according to the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO).

Between April and June, 6.4 million guests stayed in collective accommodation establishments across the country, representing a 0.5% year-on-year increase. Guests spent a total of 15.1 million overnight stays, up 0.3% compared with the same period last year.

The modest growth was driven mainly by domestic travellers. The number of Czech residents using accommodation facilities increased by 0.9%, while demand from foreign visitors remained broadly unchanged, marking the first quarter without year-on-year growth in international arrivals since the second quarter of 2021.

Hotels continued to account for the largest share of accommodation demand. During the quarter, 4.5 million guests stayed in hotels, an increase of 1.5% year-on-year. Domestic hotel guests rose by 4.0%, while the number of foreign hotel visitors declined slightly by 0.4%. Four-star hotels remained the country’s most popular accommodation category.

Performance varied across the regions. The strongest growth in visitor numbers was recorded in the Moravian-Silesian, Hradec Králové and Liberec regions, while Karlovy Vary Region experienced the largest decline, with guest arrivals falling 4.3%. Prague remained the country’s leading tourism destination, welcoming 2.2 million guests, who generated 5 million overnight stays during the quarter.

Germany remained the Czech Republic’s largest source market, with approximately 650,000 German visitors, despite a slight 0.6% decline compared with a year earlier. Slovakia and Poland followed as the second and third largest international markets, contributing 262,000 and 255,000 visitors respectively. German tourists also generated the highest number of overnight stays, followed by visitors from Slovakia, the United States and Poland.

The latest figures suggest that while domestic tourism continues to support the Czech accommodation sector, international demand has entered a period of stabilisation after several years of post-pandemic growth.

Czech Services Sector Growth Accelerates in Second Quarter

The Czech services sector recorded stronger growth during the second quarter of 2026, with sales increasing by 3.1% year-on-year in real terms, according to the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO). On a seasonally adjusted basis, sales also rose by 1.0% compared with the previous quarter, indicating continued momentum across much of the sector.

Professional, scientific and technical activities were the strongest-performing segment, with sales increasing by 7.1% year-on-year. Growth was driven primarily by architectural and engineering services, technical testing and analysis, as well as management consultancy and legal and accounting activities. Advertising and market research was the only major activity within the segment to report lower sales.

Transportation and storage also continued to perform strongly, posting 4.6% annual growth. Land transport, warehousing and logistics services made the largest contribution, reflecting ongoing demand across supply chains. Water transport also recorded higher sales, while air transport remained under pressure, with sales declining by 11.7%.

The information and communication sector expanded by 1.8%, supported mainly by growth in computer programming, IT consultancy and related digital services. Telecommunications and publishing, however, both recorded lower sales compared with the same period last year.

Accommodation and food service activities reported more modest growth of 0.9%. Restaurant and catering businesses benefited from rising sales, while accommodation providers experienced a decline, suggesting a mixed performance across the tourism sector.

Real estate activities remained broadly stable but recorded a slight 0.4% decline in sales compared with the second quarter of 2025.

Administrative and support service activities were the only major services category to contract overall, with sales falling 0.4% year-on-year. The decline was largely attributed to weaker performance by travel agencies and tour operators, although rental and leasing activities, business support services, building maintenance and security services all recorded moderate growth.

The latest figures indicate that the Czech services sector continues to expand despite weaker performance in selected industries, with business services, logistics and digital activities remaining the principal drivers of growth during the second quarter of 2026.

PPF and Live Nation Form Joint Venture to Operate Prague’s Major Entertainment Venues

PPF Group has entered into a strategic partnership with global live entertainment company Live Nation to jointly operate three of Prague’s leading event venues: O2 arena, O2 universum and Forum Karlín.

The new joint venture is intended to expand the range of concerts, entertainment events and conferences held in the Czech Republic while strengthening Prague’s position as a destination for international live events. The transaction remains subject to customary regulatory approvals.

Under the agreement, PPF will retain ownership of O2 arena, O2 universum and the associated real estate through its subsidiary Bestsport, while the newly established joint venture will assume responsibility for the day-to-day operation, event programming and venue management. Live Nation will hold a 51% stake in the joint venture, with Bestsport owning the remaining 49%.

The existing management teams at the venues will continue to provide operational and production support for artists, promoters and event organisers.

The partnership combines PPF’s ownership of major entertainment venues and local market experience with Live Nation’s international network and expertise in promoting concerts and live events. According to the companies, the cooperation is expected to increase both the number of events hosted in Prague and the presence of internationally recognised performers.

Forum Karlín has also been included in the partnership, enabling the joint venture to offer venues of different capacities suitable for a broader range of concerts, cultural events and conferences.

Despite the operational changes, O2 arena, O2 universum and Forum Karlín will continue to operate under their existing brands, with the O2 venues retaining their current naming.

For PPF, the agreement forms part of its broader strategy of developing the long-term value of its assets through partnerships with international industry leaders. The companies said the cooperation aims to enhance the Czech Republic’s profile in the global live entertainment market while increasing the commercial potential of its leading concert and multifunctional venues.

Czech Trade Surplus Narrows in June Despite Strong Motor Vehicle Exports

The Czech Republic recorded a trade surplus of CZK 15.5 billion in June 2026, as stronger exports of motor vehicles, machinery and electricity were offset by a widening deficit in electronics and energy imports, according to preliminary data released by the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO).

Although the country’s external trade balance remained in positive territory, the surplus was CZK 11.5 billion lower than in June 2025.

The automotive sector continued to be the main contributor to the trade balance. The surplus in motor vehicles increased by CZK 3.8 billion compared with a year earlier, reflecting the continued strength of Czech automotive manufacturing and exports. Trade in electricity also improved, with the surplus rising by CZK 2.8 billion, while machinery and equipment contributed an additional CZK 2.7 billion to the overall balance.

However, these gains were more than offset by weaker performance in several import-intensive sectors. The trade deficit in computer, electronic and optical products widened by CZK 6.9 billion, representing the largest negative contribution to the monthly result. The deficit in crude petroleum and natural gas increased by CZK 4.2 billion, while the surplus in other transport equipment declined by CZK 4.1 billion.

Trade with the European Union remained comparatively resilient. The Czech Republic’s surplus with EU Member States increased by CZK 13.0 billion year on year, while the trade deficit with non-EU countries widened by CZK 23.7 billion, highlighting continued dependence on imported energy and manufactured components from outside the bloc.

Exports reached CZK 464.7 billion in June, representing an 11.2% increase compared with the same month last year. Imports grew at a faster pace, rising 14.9% to CZK 449.2 billion. The Czech Statistical Office noted that June 2026 included one additional working day compared with June 2025, contributing to the higher trade volumes.

Zdeněk Skalák, Head of the Trade Balance Unit at the Czech Statistical Office, said the trade balance remained positive during June, supported primarily by exports of motor vehicles, while trade in computer, electronic and optical products had the largest negative impact on the overall result.

Seasonally adjusted data indicate that exports continued to grow modestly during the month, increasing 0.5% compared with May, while imports rose more rapidly by 1.9%.

For the first six months of 2026, the Czech Republic recorded a cumulative trade surplus of CZK 107.8 billion, a decline of CZK 24.8 billion compared with the same period in 2025. Since the beginning of the year, exports have increased 5.2%, while imports have grown 6.6%, reflecting stronger domestic demand and higher import volumes.

The latest figures underline the continued importance of the automotive industry to the Czech economy, with vehicle exports remaining the country’s strongest contributor to external trade. At the same time, rising imports of electronic products and energy continue to weigh on the overall trade balance, demonstrating the mixed impact of global supply chains and commodity markets on Czech foreign trade.

Czech Construction Growth Continues as Building Activity Offsets Civil Engineering Decline

Czech construction output continued to expand in June 2026, supported by strong building construction activity that more than offset weaker civil engineering performance, according to the latest figures from the Czech Statistical Office (CZSO).

Construction output increased by 2.0% year-on-year in June after adjusting for the number of working days, although activity declined by 0.3% compared with May. Building construction remained the main driver of growth, rising 6.3% from a year earlier, while civil engineering output fell 5.3%, largely reflecting a high comparison base from the previous year.

Radek Matějka, Director of the Agricultural and Forestry, Industrial, Construction and Energy Statistics Department at the CZSO, said the overall growth in June was driven entirely by building construction, while infrastructure-related works recorded a year-on-year decline.

The pipeline of future projects also strengthened during the month. Authorities issued 5,545 building permits, an increase of 1.8% compared with June 2025, while the total floor area approved for new buildings rose by 76.3%, indicating continued investment in larger-scale developments.

Residential construction showed particularly strong momentum. Work started on 4,013 dwellings during June, representing a 52.9% year-on-year increase. According to Petra Cuřínová, Head of the Construction Statistics Unit at the CZSO, the number of new family houses reached its highest June level in four years, while the sharp increase in apartment projects partly reflected a weaker comparison base from the previous year.

Despite the increase in housing starts, completions moved in the opposite direction. A total of 2,699 dwellings were completed in June, down 17.8% compared with the same month in 2025.

The first-half results point to a construction sector that remains on a positive trajectory. Overall construction output increased 4.2% year-on-year during the first six months of 2026. Building construction expanded by 6.4%, accounting for virtually all of the sector’s growth, while civil engineering activity declined by 0.4% over the same period.

Construction companies employing 50 or more people secured 32,399 new contracts during the first half of the year, an increase of 7.5% compared with a year earlier. The total value of these contracts reached CZK 222.7 billion, up 1.7% year on year.

Building construction continued to outperform infrastructure works in terms of new business. The value of new building contracts rose 13.9% to CZK 102.1 billion, while civil engineering orders declined 6.9% to CZK 120.6 billion. The average value of newly awarded contracts fell 5.5% to CZK 6.9 million, reflecting a larger number of smaller projects.

Planning activity also remained robust during the first half of the year. Authorities granted 31,576 building permits, an increase of 8.1% compared with the same period last year. The total approved floor area for new buildings increased 31.8% to 3.89 million sqm, with residential developments recording particularly strong growth of 54.4%, while new non-residential buildings increased 10.2%.

Housing starts reached 22,785 dwellings in the first half of 2026, up 39.8% year on year. The South Moravian Region recorded the highest number of new homes started with 4,312 units, narrowly ahead of Prague, where apartment developments accounted for most activity. The Central Bohemian Region remained the strongest market for new family housing, with 3,601 dwellings started.

Housing completions remained weaker. A total of 16,263 dwellings were completed during the first six months of the year, representing a 4.4% annual decline. While completions of apartments in multi-family buildings increased, the number of completed family houses fell 13.7%.

Prague recorded the highest number of completed homes with 3,542 dwellings, of which 84% were apartments in multi-family developments. Brno followed with 744 completed dwellings, while Plzeň recorded 607. Outside the largest cities, Třebíč, Havířov and Milovice also recorded notable levels of residential construction.

Compared with the wider European market, Czech construction activity continued to outperform. According to Eurostat, construction output across the EU27 increased 1.8% year-on-year in May 2026, while Czech construction recorded stronger first-half growth driven by sustained demand for residential and commercial building projects.

Beyond the Capital: How Japan’s Regional Cities Are Reinventing Urban Growth

For decades, Tokyo has dominated discussions about Japan’s urban transformation, attracting investment, talent and large-scale redevelopment projects. While the capital continues to evolve, a quieter but equally significant transformation is taking place across the country. Cities beyond Tokyo are pursuing their own regeneration strategies, combining economic development, improved transport, cultural preservation and sustainable planning to strengthen their long-term competitiveness.

Rather than attempting to replicate Tokyo’s model, regional cities are increasingly building on their own strengths. From innovation districts and technology hubs to heritage-led renewal projects, urban regeneration across Japan has become more diverse and locally focused.

A National Strategy for Balanced Development

One of Japan’s long-standing challenges has been the concentration of population and economic activity in Tokyo. Decades of migration from rural areas and regional cities have contributed to demographic decline elsewhere, creating pressure on local economies and public services.

To address this imbalance, the Japanese government has introduced a series of policies aimed at supporting regional revitalisation. The 2014 legislation addressing population decline and local economic development established a framework encouraging municipalities to create long-term growth strategies suited to their own circumstances.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) has complemented these efforts through urban planning initiatives designed to make cities more efficient and liveable. One of the most influential approaches is the Compact Plus Network concept, which promotes higher-density urban centres connected by reliable public transport. Instead of allowing low-density expansion, municipalities are encouraged to concentrate residential development within designated areas while improving access to services, employment and transport.

This approach also helps local governments reduce infrastructure costs while supporting an ageing population that increasingly depends on accessible public transport.

Osaka Expands as a Business and Innovation Centre

Osaka has emerged as one of Japan’s strongest examples of large-scale regeneration outside the capital.

Major redevelopment around Umeda and the adjacent Umekita district has transformed former railway land into a mixed-use district combining offices, commercial space, housing, hotels and extensive public green areas. These projects have strengthened Osaka’s position as a business hub while improving the city’s public realm and transport connectivity.

Investment linked to advanced manufacturing, life sciences, tourism and international events has further enhanced Osaka’s role within western Japan, attracting both domestic and overseas businesses seeking alternatives to Tokyo.

Fukuoka Builds a Startup-Friendly City

Fukuoka has gained international recognition for its business-friendly policies and emphasis on innovation.

Local authorities have introduced incentives to attract entrepreneurs, simplified regulatory procedures and encouraged private-sector investment. Redevelopment around Hakata Station, combined with transit-oriented residential projects, has helped create a compact urban environment that appeals to both businesses and younger professionals.

The city’s relatively affordable housing, shorter commuting times and high quality of life have strengthened its ability to retain graduates and attract skilled workers who might otherwise relocate to the capital.

Kanazawa Demonstrates the Value of Cultural Regeneration

Not every successful regeneration strategy depends on large commercial developments or skyscrapers.

Kanazawa has taken a different path by investing in its cultural identity and historic character. Rather than replacing traditional districts with modern construction, the city has focused on restoring heritage assets while introducing contemporary cultural institutions.

Projects such as the Kanazawa Citizens’ Art Village and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art have helped attract domestic and international visitors while supporting local creative industries. This combination of heritage conservation and modern cultural investment has strengthened tourism without sacrificing the city’s distinctive identity.

A More Diverse Urban Future

Japan’s regional regeneration illustrates that successful urban development does not follow a single formula. While Tokyo remains the country’s largest economic engine, other cities are demonstrating that growth can be achieved through strategies tailored to local strengths.

Some cities are focusing on innovation and advanced industries, others on entrepreneurship, transport integration or cultural preservation. Together, these approaches contribute to a broader national objective of creating a more balanced urban network while improving resilience against demographic and economic challenges.

As Japan continues to adapt to population ageing and changing patterns of work and investment, regional cities are likely to play an increasingly important role. Their regeneration efforts suggest that the country’s future growth will not depend solely on Tokyo, but on a network of well-connected, competitive and distinctive urban centres across the nation.

India’s REIT Evolution: Beyond Office Towers Towards a Multi-Asset Future

fletcher@cijeurope.com
6 August 2026
CIJ - Spotlight, Hospitality, Logistics, Mixed-use, Retail

India’s real estate investment trust (REIT) market has entered a new stage of development. What began as a platform dominated by Grade A office buildings has matured into an increasingly important component of the country’s real estate investment landscape. As the market grows in scale and regulatory support strengthens, attention is shifting from whether REITs can succeed to what types of assets will define their next phase of expansion.

The value of India’s listed REIT market has increased substantially over the past six years, reflecting growing investor confidence and the institutionalisation of commercial real estate. While office properties remain the sector’s foundation, changing economic trends, digital infrastructure, logistics growth and evolving consumer behaviour are creating opportunities for a broader range of real estate assets to enter the listed investment market.

Office Assets Continue to Lead

Office buildings remain the strongest pillar of India’s REIT industry. The country’s commercial office sector continues to attract domestic and international occupiers, particularly global capability centres (GCCs), technology firms and financial services companies.

According to recent market research, office leasing remained robust during the first quarter of 2026, with GCCs accounting for a significant share of total demand. India’s reputation as a global business services hub continues to support occupancy levels in premium commercial developments.

Another defining trend is the increasing preference for sustainable buildings. Environmentally certified office developments now account for the majority of new supply and leasing activity as occupiers place greater emphasis on energy efficiency, operational savings and corporate sustainability commitments. This strengthens the long-term investment case for high-quality office portfolios held by REITs.

Regulatory Changes Supporting Growth

The operating environment for Indian REITs has also improved through a series of regulatory reforms.

Recent changes by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) have positioned REITs more closely alongside equity investment products, potentially increasing participation from mutual funds and specialised investment vehicles while improving prospects for broader market index inclusion.

Meanwhile, measures introduced by the Reserve Bank of India allowing banks to extend lending directly to REITs are expected to improve financing flexibility and support future acquisitions and portfolio expansion.

Together, these reforms enhance liquidity, widen the investor base and strengthen the long-term attractiveness of listed real estate vehicles.

The Next Generation of REIT Assets

As the office market matures, several property sectors are emerging as potential candidates for India’s next wave of REIT listings.

Retail Properties

Large regional shopping centres and premium retail destinations remain attractive income-generating assets. Well-managed retail properties with strong tenant mixes, high occupancy rates and stable consumer spending can provide predictable rental income and portfolio diversification beyond office buildings.

Logistics and Warehousing

Industrial and logistics real estate is widely expected to become one of the strongest growth areas for future REITs.

India’s expanding manufacturing base, growth in e-commerce, rapid delivery networks and government-backed industrial corridor development continue to increase demand for modern warehouses and distribution facilities. As supply chains become more sophisticated, institutional ownership of logistics assets is expected to expand significantly.

Data Centres

The rapid growth of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, digital services and online content is driving unprecedented demand for data centre infrastructure.

As developers build facilities across both metropolitan and emerging cities, data centres are increasingly viewed as long-term infrastructure assets capable of generating stable cash flows. This positions them as a potential new category within India’s REIT market over the coming decade.

Hospitality Assets

India’s tourism, business travel and hospitality sectors have recovered strongly in recent years.

Hotels and serviced accommodation with long-term management agreements or stable lease structures could gradually become suitable candidates for specialised hospitality-focused REITs. While likely to remain a niche segment, they offer another avenue for diversification as the market matures.

Looking Ahead

India’s REIT market is entering a period of transformation. Office properties are expected to remain the industry’s foundation due to strong occupier demand, high-quality assets and improving sustainability standards. However, the future growth of the sector is likely to be driven by diversification.

Logistics facilities, data centres, retail destinations and selected hospitality assets each address different segments of India’s expanding economy and offer investors exposure to a broader range of income-producing real estate. Supported by regulatory reforms and increasing institutional participation, India’s REIT market appears well positioned to evolve from an office-centric investment vehicle into a diversified real estate platform capable of supporting the country’s next phase of economic growth.

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Latest news

All posts by fletcher@cijeurope.com.

Slovakia’s Export Growth Accelerates as Automotive Sector Drives Trade Performance

How Global Capability Centres Are Reshaping India’s Office Real Estate

Poland’s Regional Economies Show Greater Confidence Despite Rising Business Costs

Foreign Tourism to Czech Republic Levels Off in Second Quarter

Czech Services Sector Growth Accelerates in Second Quarter

PPF and Live Nation Form Joint Venture to Operate Prague’s Major Entertainment Venues

Czech Trade Surplus Narrows in June Despite Strong Motor Vehicle Exports

Czech Construction Growth Continues as Building Activity Offsets Civil Engineering Decline

Beyond the Capital: How Japan’s Regional Cities Are Reinventing Urban Growth

India’s REIT Evolution: Beyond Office Towers Towards a Multi-Asset Future