The nation's industrial output in August grew 0.8 percent from the previous month, marking the first increase in six months, according to a preliminary report released Friday by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

The seasonally adjusted production index of mines and factories came to 95.6 against the benchmark of 100 established in 1995, showing a slight growth from 94.8 in July.

Despite the growth, the ministry maintained the overall assessment that production is on a falling trend since the increase was modest and a decline is expected for September.

"We think that the (downward) trend remains intact," an official said. "This is because we expect a decline in production in September, and inventory levels remain high." The month-on-month growth is attributed to favorable production of transport equipment, including cars and rolling stock.

In contrast, production of information technology-related products, including electronic devices and chip-making equipment, showed a decline, the official said.

The ministry expects that the production index for September will decline 1.4 percent on a month-on-month basis. However, the estimate does not take into account the impact of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in the United States.

Shipments for August grew 0.9 percent on a month-on-month basis, showing the first increase in six months.

The seasonally adjusted index of shipments was 98.5.

The shipment of cars grew for both domestic and export markets, the official said.

Inventories for August grew 0.1 percent from a previous month, showing the first growth in three months. The seasonally adjusted index of inventories was 99.2.

The official said the slight growth came about because inventories of special steel pipes, motorbikes and trucks increased due to shipping schedules.