Industrial output in April grew 0.3 percent in April, up for the third consecutive month, supported by robust production of cars and auto parts, government data showed Thursday.
But the gain was less than forecast, adding to concerns about the strength of the economy following a contraction in the first quarter.
The seasonally adjusted index of output at factories and mines stood at 104.4 against the base of 100 for 2010, according to a preliminary report by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. It followed a 1.4 percent gain in March.