US manufacturing output declined for the first time in six months, with import tariffs weighing down on second quarter performance.

In April, manufacturing output in the United States saw its first decline in six months, putting manufacturers burdened with higher import tariffs at a disadvantage going into the second quarter. Data released by the Federal Reserve on Thursday showed that after revised growth of 0.4% in March, manufacturing output dropped by 0.4% in April. Manufacturing output excluding automobiles decreased by 0.3%. Overall industrial output remained unchanged in April. Utility output increased, while mining and energy extraction declined. Manufacturing accounts for three-quarters of total industrial output, and in the previous first quarter, manufacturing output had healthy growth as many customers rushed to increase orders before President Donald Trump's tariffs took effect. Aircraft production has also seen growth in recent months.