Agriculture, Manufacturing and Construction Decline in Second Quarter

The primary sector, which includes agriculture, forestry and fishing, declined by six-point one percent, with output valued at one hundred and sixteen point seven million dollars.  The secondary sector fell by six-point four percent to two hundred million dollars. Manufacturing made the largest negative contribution to overall economic growth, while construction also declined. Electricity contributed positively, helping to cushion the losses within that sector.  Another significant contributor to growth was the taxes component of the GDP calculation. SIB notes that tax collection increased by six-point four percent to one hundred and eighty-six point three million dollars. When asked about the source of taxes that the SIB refers to, both Director General Diana Castillo and Hulse responded.