Manufacturing Under Pressure from Export Weakness and Global Risk
In contrast, the Flash UK Manufacturing PMI fell to 44.6, down from 46.9 in February—its lowest since October 2023. Export-led weakness was pronounced, with the fastest decline in international sales since August 2023. Potential US tariffs and broader global economic uncertainty continue to weigh on sentiment and order books. Production volumes saw their steepest contraction in nearly 18 months, with factories reporting falling output for the fifth straight month. Input costs rose, particularly in raw materials like metals, with factory gate inflation reaching its highest since April 2023.
Labor Market Trends Reflect Cautious Hiring
Private sector employment dropped for the sixth month running, reflecting cost concerns and restructuring. However, job losses eased, especially…
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