Output growth manufacturing industry slows down

The average daily output generated by Dutch manufacturing industry was more than 1 percent higher in August 2011 than in August 2010. Production growth was reduced by half relative to June and July. In almost every branch of manufacturing industry, output growth was below the level in July.

With 14 percent, the most substantial growth was recorded in the sector transport equipment. The sector basic metals and metal products (3 percent) and the sector electrical engineering and machinery (2 percent) also generated more output than in August 2010. Output realised in the sector petroleum, chemical, rubber and plastic products was 1 percent up on twelve months previously. Output in the sector food, drinks and tobacco was marginally down on one year previously.

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 July-August was 0.3 percent down on the period May-June.

Manufacturing output (volume)

More figures can be found in dossier Business cycle.