Manufacturing activity slowed slightly in June compared with May but remained positive in the year to date.
The NCB Stockbrokers Purchasing Managers' Index recorded 53.7, compared with 54.5 in May.
A figure above 50 indicates growth. According to NCB economist Mr Eunan King, export orders to America, Asia and Britain remained robust.
However, average costs showed a continued sharp rise, with this index recording 64.7, mainly because of world shortages of raw materials.
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Prices charged by firms rose again, but competition kept price inflation below that of costs, with this index coming in at 53.7. Employment in the sector also picked up slightly in the month.