Bicycle production climbed 15.9% in 2018

Bicycle production in the Manaus Free Trade Zone, in the northern region of Brazil, increased by 15.9% in 2018. The data was released on Monday (January 14) by the Brazilian Association of Manufacturers of Motorcycles, Mopeds, Scooters, Bicycles and Similar Vehicles (Abraciclo). Total production stood at 773,641 units.

A total of 21,857 units were produced in December, figure that represents stability when compared to 2017. For Cyro Gazola, vice-president for the bicycle segment at Abraciclo, the industry is showing signs of recovery after four years of decline.

He estimates that the performance was driven by a greater supply of products, more competitive prices and the expansion of urban mobility. "This clearly shows the positive impact of the expansion of bike paths, bike lanes and bike routes in Brazilian cities," he said.

Predictions for 2019

Abraciclo's projections for 2019 point to a positive scenario, with stronger sales and production. According to Gazola, the forecast is for a 10.8% increase in manufacturing supply, which should lead the industry to 857 thousand units sold.

The bicycle industry is also optimistic about possible measures that can be taken by the federal government throughout the year and should improve people’s economic conditions and financial lives. "With the reduction of household indebtedness, planned purchases should be resumed, and stronger supply of more affordable credit should also support retail. These factors can lead to demand acceleration already in the first half of the year,” Gazola argued.