Manufacturing companies expect to invest more

In the autumn of 2006, manufacturers indicated that they expected investments to grow by 3 percent this year. If their expectations materialise, investments will grow for the second year in a row.

This autumn, manufacturers are a lot less optimistic about projected investments in 2006 than they were in spring, when they expected an increase by 14 percent compared to 2005. It is not uncommon for companies to adjust their expectations in the course of the year, once they have a better idea of possible delays or accelerations with respect to projected investments.

For 2007, entrepreneurs in nearly all branches of manufacturing industry are optimistic about the investment climate. They expect to invest 9 percent more than in 2006. Manufacturers of chemical products in particular are optimistic about 2007. They expect investments to grow by approximately 29 percent compared to 2006. In food, drinks and tobacco, a reduction of investments is anticipated in 2007.

Investments by manufacturing companies (2006 and 2007 based on manufacturers’ expectations)