China's Manufacturing PMI Dips Below Neutral Mark

In a revealing sign of economic strain, China's official manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for April has been reported at 49.0, a decrease from March's 50.5, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). This figure falls below the neutral 50 mark, indicating a contraction in the manufacturing sector.

Non-Manufacturing and Composite PMIs Also Show Decline

The non-manufacturing PMI, which gauges business sentiment in the services and construction sectors, also experienced a downturn, settling at 50.4 from the previous 50.8. Similarly, the official composite PMI, encompassing both manufacturing and services, declined to 50.2 from last month's 51.4.

These figures collectively underscore the growing challenges facing China's economy, as key sectors show signs of slowing down.