Electronics makers were once again the key drivers behind strong factory output last month.

The manufacturing sector surged 21 per cent in July from the same month a year earlier, way ahead of economist expectations of a 12.9 per cent rise. This came on the back of strong global demand for semiconductors and related equipment.

Economists pointed to the latest data as a sign that robust manufacturing growth in the first six months is on track to continue in the second half, but noted that performance across the sector remains uneven.

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