In August, production volume in manufacturing remained largely unchanged from July (seasonally adjusted), following declines in previous few months. A further decline was observed only in low-technology industries, while other groups according to technological intensity either experienced growth or remained stable. In the first eight months, manufacturing output was slightly higher than in the same period last year (0.6%, working day-adjusted). Production rose in most medium-technology industries, with the metal industry showing the most significant growth compared to last year (starting from last year’s low base). Conversely, the decline remained largest in the production of other non-metallic mineral products. Production in most low- and high-technology industries was lower year-on-year in the first eight months. The sharpest declines were recorded in the wood-processing and furniture industry, as well as the leather industry.

After two months of relatively strong year-on-year growth, the nominal value of fiscally verified invoices was 1% lower year-on-year in September. This weaker growth can be attributed to last year’s higher base, driven by increased purchases after the floods that affected trade performance, and unfavourable weather conditions this year, which have dampened the growth of certain tourism-related activities. Turnover in trade was 2% lower year-on-year. Notably, turnover in retail trade, which accounted for nearly half of the total value of fiscally verified invoices, decreased year-on-year for the first time this year (by 1%). Turnover in the sale of motor vehicles was similar to September last year, while turnover in wholesale trade remained lower year-on-year. Year-on-year turnover growth in accommodation and food service activities, certain creative, arts, entertainment, and sports services, and betting and gambling weakened significantly (overall growth in accommodation and food service activities and in other service activities was 3%, compared to 14% in August and an average of 9% in the previous eight months).