Manufacturing output nearly 7 percent higher

The average daily output of Dutch manufacturing industry was nearly 7 percent higher in July 2010 than in July 2009. In June, output was 8 percent up on one year previously.

Output growth declined over the past few months. This is mainly due to developments throughout 2009, the year the 2010 figures are compared with. After a dramatic downturn in the first four months of 2009, the decline gradually became less substantial. Over the past few months, manufacturing output still remained below the level of 2008.

With 24 percent, production increased most in the sector transport equipment. With 19 and 14 percent respectively, manufacturing output in electrical engineering and machinery and in basic metals and metal products was also higher than in July 2009. The output growth by 4 percent in petroleum, chemical, rubber and plastic products and in food, drinks and tobacco was more modest.   

Seasonally adjusted figures provide a more reliable picture of short-term production developments. Monthly figures adjusted for seasonal variation often show a somewhat erratic pattern. 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 June-July was 0.6 percent down on the period April-May.

Manufacturing output (volume)