The pace of rising industrial production across the euro zone countries slowed in September despite marking a fifth monthly gain in a row, official statistics show today.
Industrial production across the euro zone rose by 0.3% in September, compared to 0.9% in August. It fell by 12.9% on an annual basis, compared to 15.4% last time out, according to the European Union Eurostat agency's data.
The setback could be seen in detailed figures showing a slump in the production of durable consumer goods such as fridges and televisions, which fell 6% in September after a revised 5.2% rise in August.
Production of energy also contracted sharply across the engine behind Europe's economy, showing a 2.1% drop in September after rising in August.
Analysts highlighted a marked rise in German output against heavy contraction in Italy, pointing to seasonal distortions, as well as the influence of car incentive schemes and a rebound in global demand.
The general monthly trend was reflected across the 27-nation European Union, where industrial production rose 0.2% in September but fell 12.1% on a 12-month comparison.
However, the data also pointed to rising industrial output in powerhouse Britain, which expanded by 1.5% in September after a 2.8% fall the previous month.
