Substantial growth manufacturing output
The average daily output generated by Dutch manufacturing industry was 5.2 percent up in February 2014 from February 2013. The growth was more substantial than in December (2.4 percent) and January (3.2 percent). February’s production growth was the highest recorded in three years.
Output increased across the board in February, but most notably in the sector electrical products and machinery (9.3 percent). Output levels in the sectors petroleum, chemical, rubber and plastic products (7.0 percent), transport equipment (6.9 percent) and (basic) metal products (6.4 percent) were also considerably higher than twelve months previously. Output generated by the sector food, drinks and tobacco products improved by 1.5 percent.
Average daily output manufacturing industry (volume)
Seasonally adjusted figures provide a more reliable picture of short-term output developments. Manufacturing output improved over the past months and in December 2013 the highest level in six years was reached. Output declined by 2.3 percent in January 2014 relative to December 2013, but grew by 1.6 percent in February relative to January.
Seasonally adjusted average daily output in manufacturing industry
More figures can be found in the dossier Business cycle.
For more information on economic indicators, the reader is referred to the Economic Monitor.