China's official manufacturing purchasing managers index rose to 49.8 from 49.2 in August 2026, the National Bureau of Statistics of China reported.
A reading above 50 means activity expanded from the previous month, while a reading below 50 means it contracted. August's manufacturing reading was below the threshold.
The new orders subindex climbed to 50.6 from 48.5. The output subindex ticked up to 50.4 from 49.9, putting both measures above 50.
The factory-gate price subindex moved to 50.4 from 47.8, meaning factory-gate prices increased from the previous month. The input price subindex advanced to 56.6 from 53.2, pointing to higher input costs.
Construction activity edged down to 46.9 from 47. Non-manufacturing business activity held at 49 from 49, leaving both readings below 50.