Rio - The São Paulo industrial sector, where 40% of all Brazilian productive activity takes place, grew 17% in July, compared to July 2003. Industrial growth for the year is running at 11.2%, and 6.8% for the last 12 months.

According to the government statistical bureau's monthly survey, the July performance was boosted by growth in 17 out of 20 segments, with electronic material and equipment leading with growth of 182%, and vehicles up 35.4%.

The segments where they was a decline in activity were pharmaceuticals, petroleum refining and alcohol production, and printing.

Agência Brasil
Reporter:Cristiane Ribeiro
Translator: Allen Bennett
09/16/2004