Industrial production in the euro area decreased by 1.1 per cent in December 2024 compared with 0.4 per cent rise in November 2024, while the EU saw a 0.8 per cent decline, reversing the growth of 0.2 per cent in November 2024, according to Eurostat's data. Compared to December 2023, industrial production fell by 2.0 per cent in the euro area and 1.7 per cent in the EU. For the year, average industrial production declined by 1.7 per cent in the euro area and 2.0 per cent in the EU, highlighting a tough year for the sector. Sector-wise, production of intermediate goods, capital goods, and durable consumer goods decreased, while energy and non-durable consumer goods showed modest gains in both regions. Belgium, Portugal, and Austria experienced the largest monthly declines, while Ireland, Luxembourg, and Croatia saw the highest increases. Annually, Austria, Italy, and Hungary recorded the steepest declines, while Malta, Ireland, and Lithuania posted the strongest gains. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama