Key Insights
The Europe Gypsum Board market, currently experiencing robust growth with a CAGR exceeding 5%, presents a significant opportunity for stakeholders. Driven by the burgeoning construction industry, particularly in residential and commercial sectors across major European economies, demand for gypsum board remains high. Increased urbanization and infrastructure development projects further fuel this market expansion. Trends indicate a shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly building materials, boosting the adoption of gypsum board due to its recyclability and relatively low environmental impact compared to some alternatives. However, fluctuating raw material prices and potential supply chain disruptions pose challenges to consistent market growth. The market is segmented based on product type (e.g., standard, fire-resistant, moisture-resistant), application (e.g., walls, ceilings), and distribution channels. Leading players, such as Continental BP, Knauf, Saint-Gobain, and others, compete intensely through product innovation, geographical expansion, and strategic partnerships. The forecast period (2025-2033) projects sustained growth, albeit at a potentially moderated pace, due to economic factors and global market trends. Market size in 2025 is estimated to be around €8 billion based on available information. This projection assumes a stable economic climate and a sustained demand for new construction and renovation projects throughout Europe. Further growth will be significantly influenced by government regulations promoting sustainable building practices and the overall economic health of the European Union.
The competitive landscape of the Europe Gypsum Board market is characterized by the presence of both established multinational corporations and regional players. These companies are continuously striving to enhance their product offerings through technological advancements and improved manufacturing processes. Innovative products with improved fire resistance, moisture resistance, and sound insulation properties are attracting considerable attention from builders and architects. Marketing and distribution strategies are also playing a vital role in market penetration. Focus on sustainable production methods and supply chain optimization will be crucial for maintaining profitability in the face of raw material price volatility. Geographic expansion into high-growth regions within Europe and diversification into related building materials will also be key strategies for businesses seeking a strong market position in the years to come. Overall, the Europe Gypsum Board market demonstrates a healthy outlook with sustained demand fueled by ongoing construction activities and an increasing preference for sustainable building solutions.

Europe Gypsum Board Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Europe Gypsum Board Market, covering market dynamics, growth trends, regional performance, product landscape, and key players. The report uses 2025 as its base year and offers forecasts from 2025 to 2033, with historical data spanning 2019-2024. This detailed analysis is invaluable for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers seeking to understand and capitalize on opportunities within this dynamic market. The market is segmented into various types and applications, providing a granular view of market performance at a sub-sector level. The total market size in 2025 is estimated at xx Million units, with growth projections indicating significant expansion through 2033.
Europe Gypsum Board Market Dynamics & Structure
The Europe gypsum board market is characterized by moderate concentration, with key players holding significant market shares. Technological innovation, driven by demand for sustainable and high-performance building materials, is a key dynamic. Stringent environmental regulations across Europe influence manufacturing processes and product composition. Competitive pressures from alternative building materials, such as wood and cement-based panels, exist. The end-user demographic includes construction companies, contractors, architects, and DIY enthusiasts. M&A activity reflects strategic consolidation and expansion efforts.
- Market Concentration: The top 5 players hold an estimated xx% market share in 2025.
- Technological Innovation: Focus on lightweight, fire-resistant, and moisture-resistant boards, alongside advancements in manufacturing efficiency.
- Regulatory Framework: Compliance with EU building codes and environmental standards is critical.
- Competitive Substitutes: Wood, cement boards, and other construction materials present competitive challenges.
- End-User Demographics: Primarily construction companies, followed by DIY and renovation sectors.
- M&A Trends: Strategic acquisitions aiming to expand geographical reach and product portfolios are prevalent. The last five years have seen approximately xx M&A deals within this space.
Europe Gypsum Board Market Growth Trends & Insights
The Europe gypsum board market experienced a CAGR of xx% during the historical period (2019-2024), driven by robust construction activity across major economies. The market is projected to maintain a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), fueled by factors such as increasing urbanization, infrastructure development, and renovation projects. Adoption rates are influenced by building codes, consumer preference for eco-friendly materials and growing awareness of energy efficiency. Technological advancements like improved insulation properties and faster installation methods contribute to market expansion. The market penetration rate for gypsum boards is already high in Western Europe, but further growth will be driven by eastern European nations.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Europe Gypsum Board Market
Germany, France, and the UK are the leading countries in the European gypsum board market, driven by strong construction sectors and high building renovation rates. These markets benefit from developed infrastructure, robust economies, and supportive government policies promoting sustainable building practices. However, Eastern European countries are showing significant growth potential due to increasing infrastructure investments.
- Key Drivers:
- Strong construction activity across major European economies.
- Government initiatives promoting green building.
- Rising disposable incomes driving home renovation projects.
- Rapid urbanization and population growth.
- Dominance Factors: Established market presence of major manufacturers, coupled with favorable economic conditions.
- Growth Potential: Eastern European countries present considerable growth opportunities.
Europe Gypsum Board Market Product Landscape
The market offers a range of gypsum board products, including standard gypsum boards, fire-resistant boards, moisture-resistant boards, and specialized boards for specific applications. Product innovation focuses on improved thermal and acoustic performance, lightweight designs, and enhanced sustainability features. Unique selling propositions emphasize improved installation speed and reduced waste for contractors.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Europe Gypsum Board Market
Key Drivers:
- Growing construction sector across Europe.
- Increasing demand for sustainable building materials.
- Government regulations promoting energy efficiency.
- Technological advancements in gypsum board production.
Key Challenges:
- Fluctuations in raw material prices (gypsum, paper).
- Competition from alternative building materials.
- Stringent environmental regulations impacting manufacturing costs.
- Supply chain disruptions due to global events. Recent disruptions have resulted in an estimated xx% increase in production costs.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Gypsum Board Market
- Expanding into the Eastern European markets.
- Development of innovative gypsum board products with enhanced functionalities.
- Growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly building materials.
- Increased focus on improving energy efficiency in buildings through better insulation.
Growth Accelerators in the Europe Gypsum Board Market Industry
Technological breakthroughs in manufacturing processes leading to improved efficiency and cost reduction are crucial growth accelerators. Strategic partnerships and collaborations between manufacturers and distributors optimize distribution and market reach. Expanding into new markets and tapping into emerging applications of gypsum board create significant opportunities.
Key Players Shaping the Europe Gypsum Board Market Market
- Continental BP
- Etex Group
- Fermacell
- Georgia-pacific LLC
- Hengshenglong
- Holcim Ltd
- Knauf
- National Gypsum Services Company
- Osman Group
- Pabco Building Products LLC
- Saint Gobain
- VANS Gypsum Pvt Ltd
- Volma
Notable Milestones in Europe Gypsum Board Market Sector
- July 2022: Holcim acquired Cantillana, boosting its position in renovation and energy-efficient solutions. (USD 84.33 million acquisition)
- April 2022: Saint-Gobain and Dalsan formed a joint venture in Turkey, enhancing market reach and product offerings.
In-Depth Europe Gypsum Board Market Market Outlook
The Europe gypsum board market is poised for continued growth, driven by strong macroeconomic fundamentals, technological advancements, and the growing adoption of sustainable building practices. Opportunities lie in expanding into untapped markets, developing innovative product solutions, and forging strategic alliances to optimize market penetration and achieve greater efficiency. The market is expected to experience robust expansion through 2033, presenting significant opportunities for both established and emerging players.
Europe Gypsum Board Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Wall Board
- 1.2. Ceiling Board
- 1.3. Pre-decorated Board
-
2. End-User Industry
- 2.1. Residential Sector
- 2.2. Institutional Sector
- 2.3. Industrial Sector
- 2.4. Commercial Sector
Europe Gypsum Board Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Germany
- 2. United Kingdom
- 3. Mexico
- 4. Italy
- 5. Rest of Europe

Europe Gypsum Board Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 5.00% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Increasing Demand from Residential Construction; Rising Repair Activities
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Increasing Demand from Residential Construction; Rising Repair Activities
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Increasing Application in Residential Sector
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Wall Board
- 5.1.2. Ceiling Board
- 5.1.3. Pre-decorated Board
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Industry
- 5.2.1. Residential Sector
- 5.2.2. Institutional Sector
- 5.2.3. Industrial Sector
- 5.2.4. Commercial Sector
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Germany
- 5.3.2. United Kingdom
- 5.3.3. Mexico
- 5.3.4. Italy
- 5.3.5. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. Germany Europe Gypsum Board Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.1.1. Wall Board
- 6.1.2. Ceiling Board
- 6.1.3. Pre-decorated Board
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Industry
- 6.2.1. Residential Sector
- 6.2.2. Institutional Sector
- 6.2.3. Industrial Sector
- 6.2.4. Commercial Sector
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7. United Kingdom Europe Gypsum Board Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.1.1. Wall Board
- 7.1.2. Ceiling Board
- 7.1.3. Pre-decorated Board
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Industry
- 7.2.1. Residential Sector
- 7.2.2. Institutional Sector
- 7.2.3. Industrial Sector
- 7.2.4. Commercial Sector
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8. Mexico Europe Gypsum Board Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.1.1. Wall Board
- 8.1.2. Ceiling Board
- 8.1.3. Pre-decorated Board
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Industry
- 8.2.1. Residential Sector
- 8.2.2. Institutional Sector
- 8.2.3. Industrial Sector
- 8.2.4. Commercial Sector
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9. Italy Europe Gypsum Board Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9.1.1. Wall Board
- 9.1.2. Ceiling Board
- 9.1.3. Pre-decorated Board
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Industry
- 9.2.1. Residential Sector
- 9.2.2. Institutional Sector
- 9.2.3. Industrial Sector
- 9.2.4. Commercial Sector
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10. Rest of Europe Europe Gypsum Board Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10.1.1. Wall Board
- 10.1.2. Ceiling Board
- 10.1.3. Pre-decorated Board
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Industry
- 10.2.1. Residential Sector
- 10.2.2. Institutional Sector
- 10.2.3. Industrial Sector
- 10.2.4. Commercial Sector
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 11.2. Company Profiles
- 11.2.1 Continental BP
- 11.2.1.1. Overview
- 11.2.1.2. Products
- 11.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.2 Etex Group
- 11.2.2.1. Overview
- 11.2.2.2. Products
- 11.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.3 Fermacell
- 11.2.3.1. Overview
- 11.2.3.2. Products
- 11.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.4 Georgia-pacific LLC
- 11.2.4.1. Overview
- 11.2.4.2. Products
- 11.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.5 Hengshenglong
- 11.2.5.1. Overview
- 11.2.5.2. Products
- 11.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.6 Holcim Ltd
- 11.2.6.1. Overview
- 11.2.6.2. Products
- 11.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.7 Knauf
- 11.2.7.1. Overview
- 11.2.7.2. Products
- 11.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.8 National Gypsum Services Company
- 11.2.8.1. Overview
- 11.2.8.2. Products
- 11.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.9 Osman Group
- 11.2.9.1. Overview
- 11.2.9.2. Products
- 11.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.10 Pabco Building Products LLC
- 11.2.10.1. Overview
- 11.2.10.2. Products
- 11.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.11 Saint Gobain
- 11.2.11.1. Overview
- 11.2.11.2. Products
- 11.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.12 VANS Gypsum Pvt Ltd
- 11.2.12.1. Overview
- 11.2.12.2. Products
- 11.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.13 Volma*List Not Exhaustive
- 11.2.13.1. Overview
- 11.2.13.2. Products
- 11.2.13.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.13.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.13.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.1 Continental BP
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Germany Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: Germany Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: Germany Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by End-User Industry 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: Germany Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by End-User Industry 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: Germany Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: Germany Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: United Kingdom Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: United Kingdom Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: United Kingdom Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by End-User Industry 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: United Kingdom Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by End-User Industry 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: United Kingdom Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: United Kingdom Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: Mexico Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: Mexico Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Mexico Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by End-User Industry 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Mexico Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by End-User Industry 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Mexico Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Mexico Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Italy Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Italy Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Italy Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by End-User Industry 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Italy Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by End-User Industry 2024 & 2032
- Figure 24: Italy Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 25: Italy Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 26: Rest of Europe Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 27: Rest of Europe Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 28: Rest of Europe Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by End-User Industry 2024 & 2032
- Figure 29: Rest of Europe Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by End-User Industry 2024 & 2032
- Figure 30: Rest of Europe Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 31: Rest of Europe Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Global Europe Gypsum Board Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Gypsum Board Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 5.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Gypsum Board Market?
Key companies in the market include Continental BP, Etex Group, Fermacell, Georgia-pacific LLC, Hengshenglong, Holcim Ltd, Knauf, National Gypsum Services Company, Osman Group, Pabco Building Products LLC, Saint Gobain, VANS Gypsum Pvt Ltd, Volma*List Not Exhaustive.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Gypsum Board Market?
The market segments include Type, End-User Industry.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Increasing Demand from Residential Construction; Rising Repair Activities.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increasing Application in Residential Sector.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Increasing Demand from Residential Construction; Rising Repair Activities.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
July 2022: Holcim acquired Cantillana, one of the leading specialty building solutions providers based in Belgium, with 2022 estimated net sales of EUR 80 million (USD 84.33 million). This acquisition strengthens Holcim's position in building renovation and energy efficiency solutions.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Gypsum Board Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Gypsum Board Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Gypsum Board Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Gypsum Board Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence