Activity in the manufacturing sector reached a 15-month high in November as international demand filled order books, an industry survey shows today.
The November edition of the NCB Purchasing Managers' Index climbed to 53.7 in November from 53.4 in October. A reading above 50 in the index indicates an expansion in activity.
"Rising output, driven by new products appeared to be the main impetus. It was also noted that demand from the US and Spain was strong, though overall growth of new export orders decelerated," said NCB's senior economist Eunan King.
The November data indicated a further strong rise in average costs facing the manufacturers.
Companies highlighted rising raw material costs increases and the knock-on effect of high oil prices on derivatives such as fuels and plastics.
Employment in the sector increased again in November but the increase was marginal due to persistent cost pressures.