Key findings: P3041.2 - Manufacturing: Production and sales, August 2008

Manufacturing production for January to August 2008 increased by 3,0% compared with the same period in 2007, which was lower than the annual increase of 3,4% reported for the period January to July 2008. Furthermore, the estimated seasonally adjusted manufacturing production for the three months ended August 2008 decreased by 0,2% compared with the previous three months. Lower production levels were reported by six of the ten manufacturing divisions.

The estimated total value of sales of manufactured products at current prices for the three months ended August 2008 increased by 5,0% (R16 793 million), after seasonal adjustment, compared with the previous three months. Higher manufacturing sales were reported by six of the ten manufacturing divisions during this period.