Growth manufacturing output slows down

The average daily output generated in Dutch manufacturing industry was nearly 1 percent higher in April 2011 than in April 2010. Production growth slowed down further. Year-on-year production growth had already been significantly lower in March (3 percent) than in February (9 percent). Manufacturing output is still below the pre-crisis level.

With 23 percent, the most substantial growth was recorded in the sector transport equipment. The sectors electrical engineering and machinery, basic metals and metal products and food, drinks and tobacco also achieved production growth. In the sector petroleum, chemical, rubber and plastic products, on the other hand, output declined by 3 percent.

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 to 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 March-April was 1.5 percent down on the period January-February 2011.

Manufacturing output (volume)

More figures can be found in dossier Business cycle.