The Central Bank of Russia published the June issue of its Regional Economy report, indicating that economic activity increased in most industries in April and May. The main driver was stronger external demand for certain Russian exports, with higher coal production and shipments in Siberia and the Far East and increased fertiliser output in the Urals and Central Russia. Demand conditions were mixed across regions. Businesses in many macroregions reported weaker demand for furniture and household appliances, while hotels in the South and North-West saw lower occupancy than a year earlier because May holidays were shorter. By contrast, hospitality companies in Volga-Vyatka reported higher tourist flows, partly linked to sports and cultural events, and online purchases accelerated in the Urals. The issue also includes special sections on producer prices and costs and on housing construction.