However, it seems that there has been a certain level of stabilization of the relative balance in the last few years. Globalization means that businesses have access to new markets, but must also face stronger competition. To be successful in this new trade order, businesses must achieve economies of scale. To do this, it is necessary to invest in more performing equipment that increases output per worker. The cost of labour is also a significant component of the production costs that can affect the competitiveness of a business.
Current numbers indicate higher investment levels, but, paradoxically, a more costly labour force.
It is however notable that, with time, labour costs are getting higher. The Fabricated Metal Products Industries have significantly increased their capital expenditures in the last three years. The reduction in this ratio may represent the cost of introducting new technologies. Also, the lack of qualified workers in some industries from this major group is a problem that may explain this decrease. However, in the long term, the increase of capital expenditures observed in 1995 and 1996 may mean a change in the diminishing trend of this ratio.