Manufacturing output remains stable

The average daily output of Dutch manufacturing industry in July 2012 was the same as in July 2011. In June, manufacturing output was still 2 percent down from one year previously.

In July, output generated in the sector petroleum, chemical, rubber and plastic products was over 5 percent higher than in July 2011. Output declined in all other branches. The most substantial decline was recorded in the sectors transport equipment and wood and construction materials.

Average daily output in manufacturing industry (volume)

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-month average compared to the previous two-month 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 up by 0.2 percent on the period April-May.

In July 2012, the output level of manufacturing industry was slightly above the level reached just before the credit crunch at the end of 2008.

Seasonally adjusted average daily output in manufacturing industry

More figures can be found in dossier Business cycle.