Japan's industrial production "picking up slowly" with decreasing output in November

TOKYO, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) -- Japan's industrial output decreased 1.1 percent in November compared to the previous month, but is predicted to be "picking up slowly," the Japanese government said Friday.

According to a report by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the industrial output stood at 104.7 against the 2015 base of 100, following a 2.9-percent rise in October.

Production of industrial shipments declined 1.4 percent to 103.1 while inventories rose 0.2 percent to 101.5 in November.

The industrial production is still "picking up slowly," the report said.

As to future forecasts, manufacturers expect the output to rise 2.2 percent in December and then decrease 0.8 percent in January, according to the ministry.