Manufacturing output up 7 percent

The average daily output of the Dutch manufacturing industry was 7 percent up in May 2010 on May 2009. In April, output was 10 percent above the level of April 2009. It should be taken into account that in the first six months of 2009, manufacturing output was on average 13 percent lower than twelve months previously. In May, too, manufacturing output is still well below the level of 2008.

Output was 31 percent up in transport equipment and 27 percent up in basic metals and metal products. With an output growth of 10 percent, electrical engineering and machinery also performed well. Manufacturing output was also higher in petroleum, chemical, rubber and plastic products (5 percent) and in food, drinks and tobacco (2 percent).   

Seasonally adjusted figures provide a more reliable picture of short-term production developments. Monthly figures not adjusted for seasonal effects are often somewhat erratic. Therefore, the two-monthly average compared with the previous two-monthly average is a more accurate indicator. After correction for seasonal variation and the number of working days, manufacturing output in the period April - May was almost 3 percent up on the period February - March.

Manufacturing output (volume)