Switzerland's industrial sector grew for the second consecutive month in May, survey data showed on Monday.
The Credit Suisse/procure.ch Purchasing Managers' Index climbed to 52.2 points from 50.2 in April. A score above 50 suggests expansion in the sector. The latest PMI reading was the strongest since January.
The improvement in the PMI was largely driven by strong demand, part of which was met from inventories despite significant increase in purchases and production.
Further increase in output is likely in the coming months, Credit Suisse said. However, companies still appear to be somewhat skeptical, and are still being very careful with regard to their staffing policies, the firm added, citing the "employment" subindex that remains just under the growth threshold.
For comments and feedback: editorial@rttnews.com