Indian market slows down. - The Indian automobile market has been growing well and is the third biggest market in Asia. Over recent months, however, it experienced its sharpest fall for twelve years. During the current tax year, until 31 March, sales are expected to fall compared to those in the previous twelve months, after ten years of consecutive growth, according to forecasts by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers. In February (the most recent figures available), car sales fell by 26% compared to figures for February 2012. Up until 2010-2011, the Indian market experienced growth rates of between 20 and 30%. This year's results are the worst since 2000. This figure contrasts with China, which became the biggest automobile market in the world in 2009 and, given its continued strong growth rates, regularly finds itself short of production capacity, while in India, manufacturers are now experiencing a surplus in capacity. Nonetheless, market potential remains huge because only 12 out of 100 Indian citizens currently own a car. (IL/transl.fl)