In the first quarter, new orders increased by 11.9% over one year, while turnover increased by 12.8% and exports by 9.2%.
The Swiss machinery, electrical equipment and metals (MEM) industry showed strong growth in the first three months of the year. Orders received, turnover and exports in the sector have progressed markedly. The umbrella organization, however, fears the repercussions of inflation, logistical problems and protectionism.
In the first quarter, new orders increased by 11.9% over one year, while turnover increased by 12.8% and exports by 9.2%, the sector federation detailed on Monday. Exports of goods thus reached CHF 17.9 billion during the period under review.
The rate of utilization of production capacity in companies stood at 91.9%, well above the average over several years of 86.2%.
According to the umbrella organization, “the difficult revenue situation in recent years has (…) eased somewhat” and “important factors point (…) to continued growth”.
“But rising commodity and energy prices, worsening supply chain problems, growing protectionism and a possible return of the pandemic form a toxic cocktail that might clearly slow the economy,” he said. warned the umbrella in a press release.
