Manufacturing output in February almost 1 percent lower year on year

In February 2026, the calendar-adjusted output of the Dutch manufacturing sector was 0.7 percent lower than it was in February 2025, according to Statistics Netherlands (CBS). Output was down in nearly three-quarters of industrial sectors. Manufacturing output fell by 1.3 percent in February relative to January.

Contraction in nearly three-quarters of industrial sectors

Nearly three-quarters of the various industrial sectors produced less than they did last year. Of the eight largest industrial sectors, output rose by the most in the machinery industry, while it fell by the most in the repair and installation of machinery industry.

Adjusted output down on January

A more accurate picture of changes in short-term output is obtained when the figures are adjusted for seasonal effects and the working-day pattern. After adjustment, manufacturing output fell by 1.3 percent in February relative to January.

After adjusting for seasonal and working-day effects, manufacturing output often fluctuates significantly. In the spring of 2020, output declined rapidly, reaching a low point in May 2020. This was followed by an upward trend until May 2022, after which the trend reversed. Since 2024, output levels have remained broadly unchanged.

Producer confidence less unfavourable in March

Producer confidence was less unfavourable in March than the previous month. Producer confidence stood at -0.7, up from -1.1 in February. Manufacturers were more positive about their output over the next three months. However, they were more negative about their order positions and their current stocks of finished products.

Producer confidence in February was above the 20-year average of -1.3. Confidence reached an all-time high (10.5) in October 2021 and an all-time low (-31.5) in April 2020.

Confidence among manufacturers in the metal industry saw the sharpest rise. Manufacturers in the electronics and machinery industry were the most positive (4.6), while manufacturers in the textile, clothing and leather industry were the most negative (-11.1).