Taiwan Manufacturing Sector Ebbs In September - S&P Global

(RTTNews) - The manufacturing sector in Taiwan continued to expand in September, albeit at a slower rate, the latest survey from S&P Global revealed on Tuesday with a manufacturing PMI score of 50.8.

That's down from 51.5 in August although it remains above the boom-or-bust line of 50 that separates expansion from contraction.

September's decline in the PMI reflected weaker gains in both output and new orders. For the former, the rate of growth was marginal and the softest in six months. Although sales rose solidly, the latest gain was the weakest since May. There were nonetheless reports of improved market demand, both at home and abroad.

New export business, which increased for a fourth month running, was boosted by stronger sales to European and North American markets. Nonetheless, there was some concern amongst the survey panel about the underlying strength of the global economy. Panelists also noted some uncertainty in the outlook, which led to hesitancy in decision-making.