The growth in activity in the large Chinese industry slowed down in April. This is according to figures published by research agencies Markit and Caixin.
The purchasing managers’ index fell last month to a level of 50.2 from 50.8 a month earlier. On average, economists had expected the index to rise slightly to 50.9. A position of 50 or more indicates growth, below which shrinkage. The indicator is now two months in a row at a level of more than 50.
The Chinese government came up with its own purchasing managers index for April. He recorded a score of 50.1 against 50.5 in March. Here, economists generally calculated at an unchanged level. The government figures focus more on large Chinese state-owned companies, while Caixin and Markit aim more at smaller private companies.
The figures showed that there was, among other things, a slight weakening of order intake in the Chinese industry. However, the new export orders were stronger than in the previous month, which is seen as a positive sign by economists.
The Chinese government is taking various measures to prevent the economy from weakening too strongly, partly as a result of continuing trade tensions with the United States. In the first quarter, the world’s second economy recorded a growth of 6.4 percent, stable compared to the previous quarter.
Abaigael Schlomski is an accomplished economist and financial journalist with over a decade of experience in the industry. He is a regular contributor to EconomicInform, where he provides in-depth analysis and expert commentary on the latest economic trends and events. With a keen understanding of the financial markets and a talent for breaking down complex economic concepts for a general audience, Maurice is a trusted and respected voice in the field.
