The industry declined before the century was out through competition from cheaper foreign lead.

"This industry has declined in volume for years," he said.

Over the years local industry and commerce has largely declined.

The start of the 20th century brought economic challenge to Columbia as local industries declined.

As industry declined during the 1970s the population continued its decline, falling to 161,100 at the start of the 1980s.

By the 15th century, the industry had declined to some extent but was still locally significant.

Although the industry has declined, it remains a cultural core of the community.

But the industry would decline, and many people moved away.

Local industry has declined since the fall of the communist regime, as did the population.

The industry has been declining steadily over the last decade.