The facts
The production index fell to 49.8 from 51.7, and new orders fell to 49.4 from 50.5. [1][2]
New export orders were 48.7, down from 50.0 in September. [1][2]
The non-manufacturing business-activity index, which includes services and construction, fell to 49.7 from 50.2. The services component alone was 50.0. [1]
Relevant context
The seasonally adjusted manufacturing index is compiled from monthly surveys of 3,200 enterprises. A below-50 reading signals contraction in the survey; the 0.8-point decline is not a measured 0.8% fall in output. [1][2]
Sources
References support the numbered facts above. Source checks: 1 Nov 2026, 03:01 UTC.
- October 2026 purchasing managers’ index report
National Bureau of Statistics of China · Primary source · 31 Oct 2026
Read the Chinese-language release, tables and methodology, including separate manufacturing, services and construction measures.
- China’s factory activity slips as new export orders weaken
The Associated Press, via ClickOnDetroit · Reporting · 31 Oct 2026
AP is independent of the Chinese statistical authority. Its report uses the same official survey data, not an independently conducted survey.