Output volumes fell at an accelerated pace, with a weighted balance of -30 per cent compared with -16 per cent in the previous quarter. Thirteen of seventeen sub-sectors reported declines.
Total order books were described as below ‘normal’ at -37 per cent, broadly unchanged from October and well beneath the long-run average of -14 per cent. Export order books improved on the month but remained deeply negative at -31 per cent. Stock adequacy rose to +16 per cent, above the long-run average, while expectations for selling price inflation eased to +7 per cent, aligning with historical norms.
“Manufacturers face a challenging end to the year. What’s striking in this month’s survey is how consistently firms link the slowdown to uncertainty ahead of the Budget, with customers delaying purchases and investment until they know what’s coming,” said Ben Jones, CBI lead economics.
“With the Budget now just days away, the Chancellor must provide much needed certainty and back the government’s growth mission rhetoric with pro-business policies. For manufacturers, this must include accelerated support to address punitive energy costs and increased Growth and Skills Levy flexibility—interventions that would boost competitiveness, increase confidence, and unlock growth,” added Jones.
The findings are based on responses from 334 manufacturers.
ALCHEMPro News Desk (SG)
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