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Survey shows machine tool industry had strong year worldwide

During 2011 machine tool manufacturers around the world increased their output by 35 percent compared to 2010, amid some indications that growth rate is starting to level off. Japan and Germany had substantial percentage gains in their production, and China reported double-digit expansion in dollar volume output.

These statistics are cited in the 2012 World Machine Tool Output & Consumption Survey by Gardner Publications Inc., Cincinnati.

According to the most recent annual survey of production and trade in that class of factory equipment, $92.7 billion worth of machine tools were produced globally, compared with $68.8 billion in 2010 shipments from the same 28 countries. Shipments of machine tools from Chinese factories gained 32 percent to $27.7 billion in 2011, cementing the country's position as the No. 1 producer.

Japanese builders increased production substantially last year. Third-place producer Germany also reported continuing output gains during 2011. U.S. machine tool builders saw a solid 25 percent gain in shipments in 2011. Other top-10 producers including South Korea, Switzerland, Spain, and Italy experienced similarly improved activity.

Some of the industries that track orders for new machines report that the catch-up pace of the last two years is not likely to continue, as the void from the recession is starting to be filled.