Colombia: Manufacturing PMI increases in September
The S&P Global Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) came in at 52.8 in September, up from August’s 52.4. Consequently, the index moved further above the 50.0 no-change threshold, signaling a faster improvement in manufacturing sector operating conditions compared to the previous month.
The improvement in the manufacturing PMI came as output and new orders expanded at faster paces. Qualitative data suggested output was boosted by stronger sales, the launch of new products and firms dashing to meet deadlines. New orders, meanwhile, were bolstered by the upcoming FIFA World Cup and new client contracts. All of this fed in to faster growth of employment and a rebound in input purchasing activity. Adding to the optimism, both input and output inflation eased as commodity prices cooled. Less positively, business sentiment fell to a four-month low amid concerns regarding inflation and the new president’s policy agenda.