Slight easing in April amid weaker external demand
The Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) fell slightly to 48.6 in April (Mar: 48.8), the lowest in four months, and remaining below the neutral level for the eleventh straight month
- The latest performance, which remained in contraction since June 2024, reflects a modest slowdown in the health of the manufacturing sector at the start of 2Q25.
Weak external demand dragged orders and output
- Total new business declined for the second straight month, albeit at a slower rate, amid weak external demand.
- Stock levels of finished goods were reduced as firms utilise existing inventories to meet demand.
- This led to lower production, which eased for the eleventh straight month.
Download Full Content:
