China's official manufacturing purchasing managers index rose to 50.1 in September 2026 from 49.8 in August, gaining 0.3 point, the National Bureau of Statistics of China (NBS) reported.
A reading above 50 means activity grew from the previous month, while one below 50 means it shrank; September's manufacturing reading was above 50.
The output subindex climbed to 51.7 from 50.4. The new orders subindex edged down to 50.5 from 50.6. Both readings remained above 50.
The factory-gate price subindex rose to 54 from 50.4. The input price subindex increased to 60.8 from 56.6. Readings above 50 indicate rising factory-gate prices and input costs from the previous month.
Construction activity gained 3.4 points to 50.3 in September. Non-manufacturing business activity rose 1.2 points to 50.2.