California manufacturing expected to grow in second quarter

Manufacturing of high-tech, durable and nondurable goods in California is expected to pick up in the second quarter, according to a Chapman University survey released Wednesday.

Manufacturing purchasing managers surveyed expect growth to continue as the nation’s economy continues to recover.

The composite index by Chapman’s A. Gary Anderson Center for Economic Research, which measures overall manufacturing activity, increased to 60.3 in the second quarter, from 56.6.

Readings above 50 indicate expansion in the sector.

In California, manufacturing production is expected to increase from 61 in the first quarter to 68.9 in the second quarter -- the 12th consecutive quarter of growth.

The report also said that employment in manufacturing is expected to grow at a higher rate. The index for employment grew to 55.2 in the second quarter, from 52.9.

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