China’s Industrial Capacity Utilisation Rate Fell to a Record Low

In Q1 2020, China’s industrial capacity utilisation rate decreased to 67%, the lowest level since Q1 2013, due to the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on domestic and global demand.

Manufacturing, the most heavily hit sector, saw a plunge of capacity utilisation rate by 11pp to 67% in Q1 2020. Among the 13 sub-industries, automotive is the hardest hit industry, with a plunge by 22pp to 57%.

Pharmaceuticals, on the other hand, proved to be the most resilient, experiencing mere 5pp drop to 71%. Capacity utilisation in mining and utilities decreased by 8pp and 6pp, respectively, to 67% and 68%.

Detailed data and analysis on COVID-19 and its economic impact can be found in CEIC’s Coronavirus Data Monitor. Alternatively, sign in for detailed data and analysis on China’s Economy in the CEIC China Economy in a Snapshot-Q2 2020.