Factory production rose 0.5 percent in October, according to figures from the Federal Reserve released today.

That was the biggest production gain in three months, signaling that the manufacturing sector is contributing to the U.S. economic recovery, according to Bloomberg.

Gains in exports and business investments are credited for the slightly rising manufacturing numbers, with increased global demand helping lift the economy while American consumers attempt to repair their finances before resuming spending.

“We’re starting to see upward momentum,” said Jim O’Sullivan, global chief economist at MF Global Ltd. in New York in an interview with Bloomberg. “The data are consistent with growth reaccelerating in the fourth quarter.”

The 0.5 percent increase is up from a 0.1 percent increase in September, and up from Bloomberg economist predictions of a 0.3 percent increase.