By Elaine Kurtenbach
China’s economy weakened further in recent weeks, according to surveys released Monday, signaling the need for more support as the government ratchets up stimulus.
The Caixin purchasing managers survey showed new manufacturing orders fell at the fastest pace in two years in September.
“Operating conditions in China’s manufacturing sector deteriorated in September after improving during August,” the report said. “Furthermore, firms lowered their hiring and purchasing activity.”
An official survey released by the National Bureau of Statistics showed a less drastic decline but it marked a fifth straight month of contraction. The purchasing managers index was at 49.8 in September, up from a six-month low of 49.1 in August. The index is on a scale where figures above 50 indicate expansion.
The survey showed that factory output rose while new orders fell.
Chinese stock markets surged Monday, reflecting enthusiasm over a barrage of policy measures announced last week,
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