Eurozone manufacturing activity expanded in August for the first time since mid-2022, driven by stronger domestic demand, a survey showed on Monday. The HCOB Eurozone Manufacturing PMI, compiled by S&P Global, rose to 50.7 in August from 49.8 in July, climbing above the 50.0 threshold that separates growth from contraction. It was the highest reading in 26 months. Factory output recorded its sharpest rise since March 2022, while new orders increased for the first time in nearly three and a half years, though export demand continued to weaken. Greece and Spain led growth, with both posting strong upturns, while France and Italy also returned to expansion. Germany and Austria remained in contraction but reported their strongest readings in over three years. Despite rising production and orders, firms continued to cut jobs and run down inventories, while supply delays worsened. Input costs edged up for the first time since March, though output prices fell slightly. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
