Economy

US Production and Capacity Utilization Rise in November

December 16, 2013

U.S. industrial production jumped 1.1 percent in November after inching up a revised 0.1 percent in October, according to information released by the Federal Reserve Board on Dec. 16. Manufacturing output increased 0.6 percent for its fourth consecutive monthly gain.

Utilities saw a surge of 3.9 percent as winter weather boosted demand for heating. Automobile vehicle and parts production increased 3.4 percent after sliding 1.3 percent in October. Durable goods were up by 0.8 percent for the month. Mining production turned around in November, advancing 1.7 percent after a decline of 1.5 percent in October. Declines of 0.2 percent were seen for primary metals, machinery, computers and electronic products, aerospace and miscellaneous transportation equipment. Wood products, fabricated metals and appliances were up 1 percent or more.

Total industrial production climbed 3.2 percent year-over-year, surpassing its prerecession peak of December 2007 and climbing 21 percent from its lowest point in June 2009.

Capacity utilization for the industrial sector was 79.0 percent, an increase of 0.8 percent from the preceding month and 1.8 percent year-over-year. The jump exceeded analyst expectations of 78.4 percent.

Overall, the statistics indicate a healthy month for industrial production in November.