Stocks manufacturing industry fall sharply

In September 2009, stocks of finished products kept in manufacturing industry were 10 percent down on one year previously. Since February 2009, stocks have continually been lower than one year previously. In March en July in particular, stocks declined strongly. In 2007 and 2008, stocks grew continuously. The index reflecting the volume of stocks of finished products (base year 2005=100) stood at 101.3 in September, reaching the lowest level since November 2006.

Stocks of finished product manufacturing industry (volume)

The Manufacturing Industry Survey provides a first indication of the future development of the index stocks of finished products. In this survey, manufacturers are invited to define their current stocks of finished products as too large (negative), normal or too small (positive), in view of anticipated sales. These results are available two months prior to data on the stocks of finished products.

Opinions on stocks subject to change

Manufacturers’ opinions on their stocks have improved in November. The stock level in November is considered normal (in view of anticipated sales). This has not occurred since the first quarter of 2008. In October, the number of manufacturers who thought their stocks were too large increased marginally. They are evidently more optimistic about the level of their stocks than at the beginning of this year, because fewer manufacturers believe their stocks are too large. This optimism coincides with the reduction of their stocks.

Assessment of stocks of finished product