THE economic impact of changes in energy prices and “broader market conditions” stemming from the war in Iran has been recorded in the latest official health check on Island businesses.
Among the key findings of Statistics Jersey’s latest business tendency survey was that, throughout March, non‑finance sector businesses continued to report “rising costs and weak activity and profitability”, but it was also noted that they “expect activity to increase moderately over the three months to June 2026”.
Business activity in the finance sector, however, was documented as “strongly positive”, though 41% of businesses reported an increase in labour costs.
The survey saw questionnaires issued on 2 March with the study closing on 12 April.
The report noted that: “This period coincided with ongoing military action related to the Iran conflict, which began on 28 February.
“As a result, some effects of these developments are likely to be reflected in respondents’ views on current conditions and future expectations.”
It continued: “However, the nature and intensity of related economic impacts, such as changes in energy prices and broader market conditions, evolved over the survey period.
“Responses were received at different points during this period, and perceptions of the conflict’s impact on business confidence may vary depending on the timing of each response.”
