7% of Singapore manufacturers predict disastrous business outlook

Only a few are optimistic.

According to EDB Singapore, business conditions in the manufacturing sector are expected to improve in the next six months ending September 2013, compared to the seasonally less active first quarter of 2013.

EDB Singapore also said that a weighted 19% of manufacturers foresee an improved outlook, while 7% predict deterioration. Overall, a net weighted balance of 12% of manufacturers anticipate a more favourable business situation for the period April to September 2013, compared to 1Q13.

Within the manufacturing sectgor, 26% of precision engineering firms anticipate business conditions to improve in the 6-month period ending September 2013. "This positive sentiment stems from an improved order outlook in the machinery and systems segment; in particular the semiconductor related equipment and refrigerating systems industries," EDB Singapore noted.