Manufacturing output down

In October 2012, the average daily output of the Dutch manufacturing industry was1.7 percent down on October 2011. In the three preceding months, manufacturing output was approximately the same as one year previously.

The decrease in output was unevenly spread across manufacturing sectors. At over 12 percent, the largest decrease was recorded in the wood and construction materials industry. Output in the sectors transport equipment and food, drinks and tobacco was 6 percent down on one year previously. The sector electronics and machinery, on the other hand, produced 6.5 percent more than in October 2011. Output in the sector petroleum, chemical, rubber and plastic products was also up, but by less (nearly 3 percent).

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 September-October was down by 0.6 percent on the period July-August.

The average daily output of the Dutch manufacturing industry has fluctuated around the same level for two years now.

Seasonally adjusted average daily output in manufacturing industry

More figures can be found in dossier Business cycle.

For more information on economic indicators, see the Economic Monitor.