Business confidence in the Dutch manufacturing sector rose to 1.3 in June 2026, rebounding from -2.0 in May. This was the highest reading since August 2022. Expectations for business activity turned notably more optimistic, with the outlook for future production improving to 14.5 from 4.6, pointing to a stronger near-term production profile. Inventory assessments also firmed, rising to -3.5 from -5.2. However, views on order books worsened, with the corresponding assessment slipping to -7.0 from -5.6 in the previous month.
Sentiment improved broadly across manufacturing branches. Confidence strengthened in food and beverages (-1.7 vs -3.0), textiles, clothing, and leather (-2.4 vs -2.9), and refineries and chemicals (-1.9 vs -3.7). Meanwhile, base metals and metal products (3.3 vs -4.1) and electrical engineering and machinery (9.7 vs -0.9) moved back into positive territory.
