China Factory Sector Likely Accelerating in July

Activity in China’s vast factory sector likely expanded at the fastest pace in eight months in July, a Reuters poll showed on Wednesday, adding to evidence that the economy is regaining momentum after a burst of government stimulus measures.

China’s official manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) is expected to rise to 51.4 in July, up from June’s 51, according to the median forecast of 24 economists in a poll.

A reading above 50 indicates an expansion in activity while one below that level points to a contraction.

 
The expected improvement in manufacturing is in line with signs of a pick-up in broader economic growth, which quickened to 7.5 percent in the second quarter from a 18-month low of 7.4 percent between January and March.

“With the effect of mini-stimulus measures gradually filtering through, the PMI data could pick up further in the coming months, supported by reviving domestic production and improving exports,” said Wen Bin, economist at Minsheng Bank in Beijing.

A preliminary PMI survey released last week by HSBC and Markit showed that rising new orders have lifted the growth of factory sector activity to a 18-month high in July.

Some economists say the economic recovery still hinges on the magnitude of Beijing’s pro-growth steps and whether the government can successfully curb the downside risks stemming from the cooling property sector.

via Reuters

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