The country's mineral manufacturing sector is bracing for tough times ahead

Despite benefiting from strong construction activity in recent years, growing global headwinds and technology are changing the face of the sector.

Westpac NZ Industry Economist Paul Clark says technological advancements will create opportunities for some firms, but threatens the survival of others.

He says down the track, rapid technological change and intensifying environmental pressures will fundamentally change what products are produced and how they're consumed.