Schweißer symbolisiert die Entwicklung der Produktion im produzierenden Gewerbe

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According to the Federal Statistical Office [1], output in the goods-producing sector remained almost unchanged in October compared to the previous month (-0.1%). [2] While industrial output fell by 0.4%, there was a significant increase of 4.2% in construction. The energy sector recorded a sharp decline of 7.6%.

Most of the industrial sectors saw declines in production. In the two important sectors of motor vehicles / motor vehicle parts, mechanical engineering, production fell by 2.1% and 1.5% respectively. The energy-intensive sectors of the economy also reported some significant declines compared to the previous month: chemical products -6.8%, coking and mineral oil processing -6.1%, paper and cardboard -4.9% and metal production and processing -1.9%. Glass, glassware and ceramics, on the other hand, were recently up slightly by 2.9% after falling for the previous five months.

Industrial production got off to a weak start in the fourth quarter, although bridge day effects are likely to have contributed to this, too. The outlook for industrial activity in the coming months remains gloomy given the noticeably cool mood in companies and subdued demand. The fact that the construction industry has recently recorded considerable growth may have been due to the comparatively mild weather in October. The remarkable decline in the energy sector can probably be attributed to the energy saving efforts of business and private households. Compared to the same month last year, there was a minus of 13.2% (adjusted for working days).

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[1] Press release by the Federal Statistical Office of 7 December 2022.

[2] All figures are based on provisional data and have been adjusted for price, calendar day and seasonal factors (X13 JDemetra+ procedure).