Production in Dutch industry is slowing down again | Economy

More than three-quarters of industrial classes produced less in March than in the same month a year earlier, according to new figures from statistics agency CBS.

There was a large decline in production, especially in the repair and installation of machines. And far fewer means of transport were also produced. Of the eight largest sectors, only the chemical industry saw a small increase in production.

Statistics Netherlands also reports that producers were less negative in April than in March. Manufacturers were mainly more positive about expected activity and less negative about their order portfolio.

In Germany, an important sales market for Dutch industry, producer confidence was more negative in April than in March. German industry has also seen production decline several times in the past year.

The Dutch Association of Purchasing Managers (Nevi) reported earlier this month that the Dutch industry appears to be rebounding faster than that in neighboring countries such as Germany.

According to Nevi data, production, new orders and employment increased in April. The increase in the number of new orders placed with Dutch production companies was the largest in two years.