Manufacturing output almost 1 percent down in August

Strongest production growth in machinery industry

Of the eight largest industries within manufacturing, the machinery industry recorded the largest output growth at almost 10 percent. Production also increased in the transport equipment and metal products industries. However, half of the industries saw their output decline.

Slightly downward trend

A more accurate picture of short-term output developments is obtained when figures are adjusted for seasonal effects and the working-day pattern. After adjustments, an increase is seen in manufacturing output between July and August 2019 of 0.9 percent.

Adjusted for seasonal and working-day effects, manufacturing output is seen to fluctuate significantly. From mid-2014 until the beginning of 2018, the overall trend was upward. Subsequently, the trend has been slightly downward.

Dutch manufacturers less positive

Producer confidence among Dutch manufacturers deteriorated in September 2019. However, confidence remains above the long-term average.

Germany is an important foreign market for the Dutch manufacturing industry. According to the IFO index, in manufacturing the business climate index declined again in September and reached the lowest level after 2009. Manufacturers were once again less positive about their ongoing business. In August, the average daily output generated by the German manufacturing industry was 4 percent lower than in the same month last year.