What manufacturing is and why it is important to the economy

Manufacturing plays an important role in generating employment, economic growth and improving living standards. It is also an important source of government revenue.

Definition of manufacturing industries

A subset of the secondary sector, manufacturing industries include industries that convert goods into consumer products. They also define manufacturing industries, i.e. enterprises where most of the work is done manually. Their activities are not limited to manufacturing and processing, but may also include repairing, installing industrial equipment, and subcontracting work to outside organizations offering services.

Processing into consumable products

In general, the activities of manufacturing industries are consistent with Section C of the NAF standard. One of the primary activities of these manufacturing establishments is the transformation of raw materials into consumer products, particularly food products. This includes all types of food processing industries, mainly those producing canned products.

Enterprises producing beverages and tobacco products are also included in this category. It should also be noted that the chemical, pharmaceutical, and specialized coke and petroleum refining industries are also classified as manufacturing industries.

Manufacture of consumer goods

Manufacturing industries, although their basic definition is manual processing, may also include "significant materials" processing industries. Therefore, enterprises producing textiles, clothing, leather and footwear are also classified as manufacturing industries.

The consumer goods category may also include establishments specializing in the manufacture of rubber and plastic products, as well as the paper and paperboard industry. In this regard, the printing and sound recording industries are also included in this category.

Metallurgical and metalworking industries

In general, the nature of manufacturing industries is not determined by the scale of investment or enterprise. Indeed, in some cases heavy industry may be categorized as a tertiary sector. In any case, most metal and metal products industries are classified as manufacturing industries. These include the manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products, and electrical equipment.

Manufacturing industries also include machinery and equipment manufacturing, automotive manufacturing, and transportation equipment manufacturing. There are also nonmetallic mineral products and furniture manufacturing industries. Finally, manufacturing industries include those involved in the repair and installation of machinery and other equipment.

In conclusion, manufacturing is one of the most important industries in any country's economy. It produces goods that are essential to people's daily lives, employs millions of people and contributes significantly to economic growth.