The global manufacturing purchasing managers' index (PMI) declined to 49.6 percent in March, 0.4 percentage points lower than that in February, according to data released by the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing on Sunday.
The decline reflected the ongoing trend of slow economic growth worldwide, the federation said. The manufacturing PMI for the Americas was 48.9 percent, a decline of 1.3 percentage points from the previous month, falling into contraction territory, a significant factor contributing to the global decline in manufacturing PMI.
The index of Europe remained below 50 percent but showed a slight increase from February.
Africa's manufacturing PMI rose to 50.8 percent, entering the expansion zone, indicating an improvement in manufacturing recovery.
Asia's PMI was 51.3 percent, maintaining stability above 51 percent for two consecutive months. Among major countries, China's manufacturing showed growth for two consecutive months, operating in the expansion zone above 50 percent. The continued positive performance of China's manufacturing serves as a crucial support for stable growth in Asian manufacturing.
Overall, in the first quarter, the average global manufacturing PMI was 49.9 percent, higher than 49.2 percent of the fourth quarter in 2024 and 49.6 percent of the same period last year, indicating a slightly better global economic recovery this year compared with the fourth quarter and the same period last year, although the index levels remain relatively low.
Analysis suggests that the tariffs imposed by the United States has inevitably led to trade frictions, resulting in negative impacts on the U.S. and various countries globally. In the short term, this situation will lead to increased global trade costs and disruptions in the global supply chain, creating a scenario of multiple losses. But it is crucial to recognize that the sustained impact of tariffs on the global economy is not viable and global economic cooperation remains paramount.
Global manufacturing PMI shows slight weakness in March
Global manufacturing PMI shows slight weakness in March
Global manufacturing PMI shows slight weakness in March
A cold front has brought snowfall and freezing temperatures across many parts of China, disrupting transportation and prompting emergency responses. On Sunday morning, many places in Handan City of north China's Hebei Province have experienced snowfall.
The province on Sunday activated a Level-IV emergency response for major meteorological disasters in preparation for incoming heavy snowfall.
According to the provincial meteorological observatory, heavy snow is forecast to hit areas including Shijiazhuang, Cangzhou and Hengshui from day to night on Sunday. Some regions may experience blizzard conditions.
Forecasters warn that the severe weather will disrupt transportation, urban services, and greenhouse agriculture.
Local authorities have been urged to closely monitor weather conditions, enhance risk assessment, and eliminate potential safety hazards.
China has a four-tier emergency response system, with Level I being the most severe response.
Starting early Sunday morning, a new round of snowfall began in areas such as Qingyang City and Dingxi City in northwest China's Gansu Province.
In order to ensure smooth traffic and people's normal life and production, local departments have made coordinated efforts to clear snow from roads.
Local traffic police have also increased presence at key areas to direct traffic and ensure timely response to emergencies.
In addition, widespread snowfall affected the northern parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, posing challenges to urban transportation and railway operations.
Traffic police and city departments are mobilizing to clear roads and ensure safe travel for residents.
Railway authorities also implemented pre-arranged snow-response plans, using equipment such as wind-powered snow blowers and de-icing equipment to clear key sections of track and prevent switches from freezing.
The current round of snowfall in the northern parts of Xinjiang is expected to end on March 2. Some areas in east China's Shandong Province also experienced heavy snow on Sunday. At 11:00, the provincial weather service issued yellow warnings for icy roads.
At the Mount Tai scenic area in Tai'an City, the weather transitioned from a mix of rain and snow to snowfall during the day. As of 15:00 on Sunday, the average precipitation had reached 18.9 millimeters, with the snowfall still ongoing. To ensure the safety of visitors, the scenic area has decided to suspend all access routes starting from 16:00. On Sunday morning, cold air prompted snowfall in many places of north China's Shanxi Province. The Shanxi Provincial Meteorological Observatory issued a yellow alert for blizzard, covering areas such as Jinzhong City, Linfen City, and Yuncheng City.
Icy road conditions led to temporary traffic restrictions on several highway sections.
Local authorities promptly activated emergency response plans, deploying crews for snow removal and traffic control.
Snowfall hits many parts of China, affecting transportation
