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SA’s manufacturing sector remains under pressure as purchasing managers’ index slips in July

# South Africa’s manufacturing sector remained under pressure last month, with the Absa purchasing managers’ index slipping from 47.3 points to 46.8 points, marking a fourth consecutive month below the neutral 50-point level. However, the survey shows stronger domestic demand boosting production for a second consecutive month, while cost pressures eased. Manufacturers remain cautious, with weak export demand, lower business confidence and concerns over higher fuel prices weighing on the outlook.