China's industrial production increased 17.9 percent in October, which was quite strong but below expectations, with automobiles and electronics leading the improvement. January through October cumulative industrial output expanded 18.5 percent, which was up from 16.6 percent in 2006. Textile production grew 15.3 percent, but continued to fall behind total industrial growth. This reduction in growth is linked to a slower rate of growth in both yarn and fabric production.