China April manufacturing PMI shows continued expansion

China's official manufacturing PMI fell to 50.3 in April, marking a second consecutive month of expansion for the industrial sector. The reading beat the 50.1 median forecast but dipped from the 50.4 level recorded in March. Industrial stability suggests growth momentum is holding despite external shocks from conflict in the Middle East.

The National Bureau of Statistics reported the manufacturing purchasing managers index (PMI) dipped 0.1 points from the previous month. This 50.3 figure indicates the factory sector continues to grow, as any reading above 50.0 signifies expansion.