The purchasing managers' index (PMI) for China's non-manufacturing sector came in at 50.1 in March, up 0.6 percentage points from February, official data showed Tuesday.
This reflected improved business sentiment in the non-manufacturing sector, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.
A reading above 50 indicates expansion, while a reading below 50 reflects contraction.
In March, business activities related to infrastructure investment saw a notable improvement, with the construction sub-index standing at 49.3, up 1.1 percentage points from the previous month.
Business activity indices in sectors related to telecommunications, radio, television and satellite transmission services climbed above 60, while the index for internet software and information technology services rose to above 51.
The business activity index for the financial industry also rose in March, remaining above 60 for four consecutive months.
"The expectation indices indicate a recovery trend, reflecting a further rebound in business confidence. This suggests that the momentum toward a positive economic performance will be stronger in the coming period," said He Hui, vice president of the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing.
China's non-manufacturing PMI at 50.1 in March
The spillover effects of the ongoing Middle East conflict have driven up commodity prices in Ethiopia, taking a heavy toll on people's daily life, especially for the low-income population.
With U.S.-Israeli joint military strikes on Iran now exceeding one month and no clear resolution in sight, the economic aftershocks are spreading far beyond the Middle East.
As part of its response to U.S. and Israeli operations, Iran has restricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, targeting ships associated with the United States and Israel. The blockade of this vital global energy route has driven up oil and gas prices worldwide.
In Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, long queues of vehicles could be seen at gas stations waiting for fuel. Prices of other goods are also on the rise.
"The prices of goods are going up every day. If the conflict continues, life will become very hard, especially for people with low incomes," said Zeynu Yelma, a shop owner.
Beyond rising living costs, the surge in prices has also hit the local construction industry.
"Over the past two weeks, the prices of building materials have risen sharply, severely affecting our work. The price of cement has nearly doubled. Sand and gravel costs continue to rise. The price of steel has also surged. If this trend continues, I'm afraid our work may have to stop," said Yetbarek Workenhe, manager of a construction site.
Although local authorities have been working to secure supplies, provide subsidies, and prioritize public services, the severe international situation continues to widen the supply gap.
Spillover effects of Middle East conflict push up prices in Ethiopia
