The manufacturing and extractive industries recorded solid growth in December 2025, reflecting renewed production momentum across several key sectors.
According to preliminary data, the index of manufacturing and extractive industries—excluding crude oil and petroleum products—rose to 127.19 in December, up from 119.04 in November. This represents a 6.8 percent month-on-month increase, signaling improved industrial activity toward the end of the year.
Growth was led by the pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and medicinal products sector, which posted an index of 162.93 in December, compared with 153.86 in November. The 5.89 percent increase was driven by higher production levels and stronger operational performance within the sector.
The furniture industry delivered the most dramatic expansion. Its index surged to 374.26 in December from 233.08 the previous month, marking a sharp 60.57 percent increase. Industry sources attributed the jump to expanded output and fulfillment of accumulated orders.
However, not all sectors shared in the growth. The leather industry experienced a notable downturn, with its index falling to 38.25 in December from 51.50 in November—a 25.73 percent decline largely linked to weaker export demand.
Similarly, the paper industry saw a contraction, as its index slipped to 74.99 from 80.84, reflecting a 7.24 percent decrease. The decline was mainly due to temporary production stoppages for scheduled maintenance.
Overall, December’s performance highlights a mixed industrial landscape, with strong gains in manufacturing offset by challenges in export-oriented and maintenance-affected sectors. Photo by Karimtinawi, Wikimedia commons.
