Mexico's industrial output growth lower than expected

Mexico’s industrial output growth lower than expected

Mexico's industrial output rose a lower-than-expected 2% year on year in February, Mexico's Finance Ministry said. Weak performances in the mining, electricity and construction sectors negatively affected the industrial output. Mining output fell 3.3% in February. The construction sector rose a slight 0.7%, while the manufacturing sector expanded 2.8%. Mexican industry has exhibited a downturn in recent months due to weaker export demand from the US. Domestic demand is now the main engine of Mexico's economy, which is expected to grow 4% in 2005.