Manufacturing output in May almost 5 percent higher, year on year

In May 2026, the calendar-adjusted output of the Dutch manufacturing sector was 4.9 percent higher than it was in May 2025, according to Statistics Netherlands (CBS). That is the same increase as in April. Output grew in May in nearly 40 percent of the underlying sectors. Manufacturing output rose by 0.1 percent relative to April.

Growth in less than half of industrial sectors

Production was up in nearly 40 percent of the various industrial sectors, relative to last year. Of the eight largest industrial sectors, output rose most sharply in the machinery sector, while it fell by the most in the chemical sector and transport equipment sector.

Adjusted output up on April

A more accurate picture of short-term changes in output is obtained when the figures are adjusted for seasonal effects and the working-day pattern. After these adjustments, manufacturing output rose by 0.1 percent in May relative to April.

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. Manufacturing output has risen over the past three months.

Producer confidence improves in June

Producer confidence was more favourable in June than in May. Producer confidence rose from -2.0 in May to 1.3 in June. That is the highest level in nearly four years. Manufacturers were mainly more positive about their output over the next three months.

Producer confidence in June was above the 20-year average of -1.4. Confidence reached an all-time high (10.5) in October 2021 and an all-time low (-31.5) in April 2020.

In most sectors, producer confidence improved. Confidence among manufacturers in the electronics and machinery sector saw the sharpest incline. Manufacturers in the electronics and machinery sector were also the most positive (9.7).