Key Insights
The Belgian prefab house market, valued at €0.99 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and efficient construction solutions. A Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.65% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a significant expansion of this market. Key drivers include rising construction costs, shortened construction timelines, and growing environmental concerns. The residential segment currently dominates the market, fueled by a desire for affordable housing and quicker move-in times. However, the commercial and industrial sectors are also poised for growth, particularly as businesses seek cost-effective and environmentally friendly facilities. This growth is further fueled by several market trends including technological advancements in prefabrication methods, a growing emphasis on modular design, and increased government support for sustainable building practices. While potential restraints such as regulatory hurdles and public perception of prefab housing might exist, the overall market outlook remains positive. Leading players like Artes Group, Ibens, and Altez Construction Group are strategically positioning themselves to capitalize on the burgeoning market opportunities. The forecast suggests that the market will reach significant size by 2033, bolstered by continuous technological innovation and supportive policy frameworks.
The competitive landscape is marked by a mix of established players and emerging firms. Companies like HUF Haus and Containex represent a diverse range of prefab construction techniques and target markets. The geographic focus remains predominantly within Belgium, indicating potential for future expansion into neighboring countries. The historical period (2019-2024) likely demonstrated steady growth, laying the groundwork for the projected accelerated expansion in the forecast period (2025-2033). Continued innovation, strategic partnerships, and evolving consumer preferences will shape the market's trajectory, creating considerable opportunities for businesses operating within the Belgian prefab housing sector.

Prefab House Market in Belgium: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Prefab House Market in Belgium, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The study period covers 2019-2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period spanning 2025-2033. The report utilizes data from the historical period (2019-2024) to project future market trends and growth. The Belgian prefab house market is expected to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.
Prefab House Market in Belgium Market Structure & Competitive Dynamics
The Belgian prefab house market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with key players like Artes Group, Ibens, Altez Construction Group, Juri, Wanty Group, ALHO Systembau, Mathieu Gijbels, and HUF Haus holding significant market share. However, smaller regional players and specialized firms like Containex and Valcke Prefab Beton also contribute to the market's dynamism. The market is characterized by a dynamic innovation ecosystem driven by advancements in modular construction techniques, sustainable materials, and digital design tools.
Regulatory frameworks, including building codes and environmental regulations, play a crucial role in shaping market dynamics. Substitutes, such as traditional brick-and-mortar construction, face increasing competition due to prefab’s cost-effectiveness and speed of construction. End-user trends favor sustainable and energy-efficient prefab solutions. M&A activity has been moderate, with a few significant deals valued at approximately xx Million over the past five years, primarily focused on expanding geographical reach and technological capabilities. Artes Group's recent acquisition of a smaller prefab manufacturer illustrates this trend. Market share data indicates that the top five players collectively hold around xx% of the market, leaving room for smaller players to flourish through niche specialization and regional focus.
Prefab House Market in Belgium Industry Trends & Insights
The Belgian prefab house market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors. Increasing urbanization and population density are fueling demand for faster and more efficient construction methods. Government initiatives promoting sustainable building practices and energy efficiency further enhance market appeal. Technological advancements, including Building Information Modeling (BIM) and prefabrication technologies, are streamlining the construction process and reducing costs. Consumer preferences are shifting towards customizable, high-quality, and sustainable prefab homes, encouraging manufacturers to offer diverse design options and eco-friendly materials. The market penetration of prefab houses in the residential sector is steadily rising, currently at approximately xx%, with projections to reach xx% by 2033. This growth is also fueled by the relatively faster construction timelines compared to traditional construction methods, often leading to reduced overall project costs. The overall market is expected to exhibit a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Prefab House Market in Belgium
The residential segment currently dominates the Belgian prefab house market, accounting for approximately xx% of the total market value. This is driven by increasing demand for affordable and sustainable housing solutions.
- Key Drivers for Residential Segment Dominance:
- Growing urban population and housing shortages.
- Government incentives and subsidies for energy-efficient housing.
- Rising consumer preference for faster construction times and customized designs.
- Favorable mortgage rates and financing options.
The commercial and industrial segments are experiencing moderate growth, driven by the need for flexible and rapidly deployable spaces. The commercial segment benefits from the cost-effectiveness and speed of construction for offices, retail spaces, and hospitality projects. The industrial segment sees value in the ability to customize prefab structures to specific manufacturing or logistical needs. However, the residential sector remains the primary growth engine due to its larger market size and consistent demand.
Prefab House Market in Belgium Product Innovations
Recent product innovations focus on sustainable materials, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) and recycled steel, along with smart home technologies for enhanced energy efficiency and automation. Prefabricated modules are becoming increasingly customizable, offering greater design flexibility and catering to diverse consumer preferences. These innovations are enhancing the competitive advantage of prefab houses, particularly in terms of sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal. The integration of renewable energy sources into prefab designs is also gaining traction.
Report Segmentation & Scope
This report segments the Belgian prefab house market by application:
Residential: This segment focuses on single-family homes, multi-family dwellings, and other residential structures. Growth is projected at xx% CAGR due to strong consumer demand and government incentives. Competition is high, with a mix of large and small players.
Commercial: This segment encompasses offices, retail spaces, hotels, and other commercial buildings. Growth is moderate, driven by the need for flexible and quickly deployable commercial spaces. Competition is moderate, with specialized firms offering customized solutions.
Industrial: This segment includes factories, warehouses, and other industrial facilities. Growth is slower compared to the residential segment but is driven by the need for cost-effective and customizable industrial structures. Competition is characterized by a few major players specializing in large-scale industrial projects.
Key Drivers of Prefab House Market in Belgium Growth
Several factors propel the growth of the Belgian prefab house market:
- Government support: Incentives and regulations promoting sustainable construction and energy efficiency.
- Technological advancements: Improved prefabrication techniques, BIM, and automation lead to reduced construction times and costs.
- Demand for sustainable housing: Consumers increasingly seek eco-friendly and energy-efficient homes.
- Shortage of skilled labor: Prefabrication reduces reliance on on-site labor.
Challenges in the Prefab House Market in Belgium Sector
The market faces challenges including:
- Regulatory hurdles: Navigating complex building codes and permitting processes can be time-consuming.
- Supply chain disruptions: Material shortages and price volatility can impact project timelines and costs.
- Competition from traditional construction: Traditional methods remain a strong competitor, particularly in the higher-end residential market. This competition is estimated to reduce the market's overall growth by approximately xx% annually.
Leading Players in the Prefab House Market in Belgium Market
- Artes Group
- Ibens
- Altez Construction Group
- Juri
- Wanty Group
- ALHO Systembau
- Mathieu Gijbels
- HUF Haus
- Containex
- Valcke Prefab Beton
Key Developments in Prefab House Market in Belgium Sector
- June 2023: Artes Group launches a new line of sustainable prefab homes incorporating CLT.
- October 2022: Government announces new subsidies for energy-efficient prefab housing.
- March 2021: Ibens partners with a technology firm to integrate smart home technologies into its prefab designs.
Strategic Prefab House Market in Belgium Market Outlook
The Belgian prefab house market presents significant growth potential, driven by sustained demand for affordable, sustainable, and quickly constructed housing and commercial spaces. Strategic opportunities lie in expanding into niche segments, embracing technological innovations, and strengthening supply chain resilience. Focusing on sustainable and energy-efficient solutions will be crucial for future success. The market's continued growth will depend heavily on the government's continued support and the ongoing evolution of prefabrication technology.
Prefab House Market in Belgium Segmentation
-
1. Application
- 1.1. Residential
- 1.2. Commercial
- 1.3. Industrial
Prefab House Market in Belgium Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. United States
- 1.2. Canada
- 1.3. Mexico
-
2. South America
- 2.1. Brazil
- 2.2. Argentina
- 2.3. Rest of South America
-
3. Europe
- 3.1. United Kingdom
- 3.2. Germany
- 3.3. France
- 3.4. Italy
- 3.5. Spain
- 3.6. Russia
- 3.7. Benelux
- 3.8. Nordics
- 3.9. Rest of Europe
-
4. Middle East & Africa
- 4.1. Turkey
- 4.2. Israel
- 4.3. GCC
- 4.4. North Africa
- 4.5. South Africa
- 4.6. Rest of Middle East & Africa
-
5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. China
- 5.2. India
- 5.3. Japan
- 5.4. South Korea
- 5.5. ASEAN
- 5.6. Oceania
- 5.7. Rest of Asia Pacific

Prefab House Market in Belgium 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 6.65% 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. Increase in GDP contribution from Construction Industry; Increase in Number of Building Permits
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. High Initial Investments
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Labour Costs in Belgium has increased in 2020
- 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 Prefab House Market in Belgium Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.1.1. Residential
- 5.1.2. Commercial
- 5.1.3. Industrial
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.2.1. North America
- 5.2.2. South America
- 5.2.3. Europe
- 5.2.4. Middle East & Africa
- 5.2.5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6. North America Prefab House Market in Belgium Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.1.1. Residential
- 6.1.2. Commercial
- 6.1.3. Industrial
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7. South America Prefab House Market in Belgium Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.1.1. Residential
- 7.1.2. Commercial
- 7.1.3. Industrial
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8. Europe Prefab House Market in Belgium Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.1.1. Residential
- 8.1.2. Commercial
- 8.1.3. Industrial
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9. Middle East & Africa Prefab House Market in Belgium Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.1.1. Residential
- 9.1.2. Commercial
- 9.1.3. Industrial
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10. Asia Pacific Prefab House Market in Belgium Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10.1.1. Residential
- 10.1.2. Commercial
- 10.1.3. Industrial
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 11.2. Company Profiles
- 11.2.1 Artes Group
- 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 Ibens
- 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 Altez Construction Group
- 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 Juri
- 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 Wanty Group
- 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 ALHO Systembau
- 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 Mathieu Gijbels
- 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 HUF Haus**List Not Exhaustive
- 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 Containex
- 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 Valcke Prefab Beton
- 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)
- 11.2.1 Artes Group
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Belgium Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: Belgium Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: North America Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: North America Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: North America Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: North America Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: South America Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: South America Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: South America Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: South America Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: Europe Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: Europe Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: Europe Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: Europe Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Middle East & Africa Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Middle East & Africa Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Middle East & Africa Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Middle East & Africa Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Asia Pacific Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Asia Pacific Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Asia Pacific Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Asia Pacific Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: United States Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Canada Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Mexico Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Brazil Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Argentina Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Rest of South America Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: United Kingdom Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Germany Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: France Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Italy Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Spain Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Russia Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Benelux Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Nordics Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Rest of Europe Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Turkey Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Israel Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: GCC Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: North Africa Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: South Africa Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Rest of Middle East & Africa Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: Global Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: China Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: India Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Japan Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: South Korea Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: ASEAN Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Oceania Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: Rest of Asia Pacific Prefab House Market in Belgium Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Prefab House Market in Belgium?
The projected CAGR is approximately 6.65%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Prefab House Market in Belgium?
Key companies in the market include Artes Group, Ibens, Altez Construction Group, Juri, Wanty Group, ALHO Systembau, Mathieu Gijbels, HUF Haus**List Not Exhaustive, Containex, Valcke Prefab Beton.
3. What are the main segments of the Prefab House Market in Belgium?
The market segments include Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 0.99 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Increase in GDP contribution from Construction Industry; Increase in Number of Building Permits.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Labour Costs in Belgium has increased in 2020.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
High Initial Investments.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 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 "Prefab House Market in Belgium," 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 Prefab House Market in Belgium 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 Prefab House Market in Belgium?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Prefab House Market in Belgium, 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