Manufacturing Output Increased by 0.8% in the First Two Months of 2025
According to data from the Central Statistical Bureau, in February 2025, compared to February 2024, the output of the manufacturing industry decreased by 0.1% in unadjusted terms, but increased by 4.2% in calendar-adjusted terms. Overall, in the first two months of the year, the manufacturing output was 0.8% higher than in the same period last year (in unadjusted terms).
In the breakdown by industrial sub-sectors, development trends remain varied. In February this year, compared to February 2024, in unadjusted terms, the most significant positive impact in the manufacturing industry was observed in the food industry (+5.1%) and the rubber and plastics manufacturing sector (+34.4%). There was also an increase in the production of non-metallic mineral products (+5.7%), paper products (+6.9%), and machinery and equipment (+2.5%). Conversely, there was a significant decrease in the production of chemicals (-24.6%), fabricated metal products (-8%), and electrical equipment (-8.9%).
In February, compared to the same month last year, the turnover of the manufacturing industry at current prices decreased by 0.2%, due to a 3.2% reduction in domestic market sales. However, export sales increased by 1.3% compared to the previous year. Notably, the turnover of food products, rubber and plastics, and non-metallic mineral products saw significant growth.
It is expected that this year, month-on-month, there will generally be positive growth rates in manufacturing. This will continue to be influenced by export opportunities. Challenges will persist for companies that were or are still connected to the markets of Russia and other CIS countries. In this situation, they will need to continue seeking new supply opportunities and markets for their products. Domestic market-oriented manufacturing sectors will be influenced by consumer purchasing power.