(MENAFN) American industrial activity edged higher in September, meeting analyst forecasts while revealing persistent weakness in the manufacturing sector, Federal Reserve figures disclosed Wednesday.

Industrial production advanced 0.1% from August levels, matching economist predictions following a downwardly adjusted 0.3% contraction the prior month, the central bank's data showed.

Manufacturing output flatlined during the period after registering a modest 0.1% gain in the previous month, signaling stagnation in the sector that produces goods ranging from automobiles to electronics.

Mining production similarly held steady month-over-month, while utilities output surged 1.1% as seasonal demand patterns shifted.

Capacity utilization—a critical gauge of economic expansion and consumer demand—remained frozen at 75.9%, falling short of market projections and suggesting industrial facilities continue operating below optimal levels.

Measured year-over-year, industrial output climbed 1.6%, reflecting gradual growth compared to September of the previous year.

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