Brasília, 5/11/2004 (Agência Brasil) - With strong sales in March (up 22.32%, compared to February), first quarter industrial sector sales increased 5.09%, compared to the last quarter of 2003. This is the third consecutive quarter industrial sector sales have increased, reports the National Industrial Confederation (CNI).

According to Renato da Fonseca, who coordinated the CNI survey, solid performance by the export sector, along with improved domestic consumption, boosted sales.

"For some time now the export sector has bostered industrial sector sales. There was also the fact that March had five more working days than February, and three more than March 2003. When seasonal adjustments are made the growth turns out to have been small, but it is a positive sign. It shows moderate and consistent industrial sector growth since last year," said Fonseca.

Translator: Allen Bennett