Malaysia: Manufacturing PMI ticks up in June
The Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), produced by S&P Global, increased to 50.4 in June from 50.1 in May. As a result, the PMI inched further above the 50-threshold that separates improving from deteriorating conditions in the manufacturing sector compared to the previous month.
June’s result was mainly due to stabilizing output levels and another increase in new orders. Nonetheless, employment levels fell. In addition, price pressures once again weighed on the overall reading: Material shortages led to a shaper rise in input price inflation, which in turn led firms to raise their selling prices. Lastly, optimism over the coming 12 months fell to its lowest level in 10 months amid concerns over the global economy and rising inflation.
Commenting on the release, Chris Williamson, chief business economist at S&P Global, said:
“While there was good news in terms of some supply constraints showing clear signs of easing which should help alleviate some industrial price pressures, global energy and food supply having become increasing sources of concern.”