The index that measures this activity was even below 50%, at 49.4% in April compared to 51.4% in March.
The figure is well below the 51.8% expected by analysts, according to the consensus compiled by Briefing.com. But above all, it indicates a contraction in the level of activity.
Any data below 50% implies a contraction and this is the first time it has occurred in 15 months. The last negative data for the sector was in December 2022.
“The decline in the index is a consequence of lower activity, fewer new orders and the continued decline in employment” in the sector, highlighted the head of the ISM survey, Anthony Nieves, quoted in a statement.
Source: With information from AFP.
