manufacturing sector

China's manufacturing sector has returned to growth, with factory activity moving back into expansion territory, according to official data. The uptick is being read as a positive sign for the world's second-largest economy, which has faced weak demand and property-sector troubles. Analysts see it as evidence that recent stimulus measures may be starting to take effect.

New purchasing managers' index readings from China indicate improving economic conditions across both manufacturing and services sectors. The figures offer a rare note of optimism about the world's second-largest economy, which has faced weak consumer demand and a prolonged property downturn. Analysts will be watching whether the momentum holds in coming months.

China's factory sector has returned to growth, with manufacturing activity expanding after a period of contraction. The turnaround is being read as a positive signal for the world's second-largest economy, which has faced weak demand and property-sector troubles. Analysts are watching whether the improvement can be sustained in coming months.

China's factory activity expanded in September, ending two straight months of contraction, according to official purchasing managers' index data reported by CNBC. The turnaround suggests a modest improvement in manufacturing conditions, offering a rare positive signal for the world's second-largest economy amid ongoing concerns about weak demand and the property sector.

China's official manufacturing purchasing managers' index came in at 50.1 for September, edging just above the 50 mark that separates expansion from contraction. The reading suggests factory activity stabilised after months of weakness, offering a modest boost to hopes that the world's second-largest economy is regaining momentum, though the margin of growth remains thin.

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