Although the PMI remains above the 50-point threshold indicating expansion, the December figure is below the long-term monthly average of 52.4 and the average December readings of the past three years, which stood at 53.2.
The PMI showed a continuation of growth that began in November, reversing a trend of slowing activity observed since June. Most sub-indices improved, although two remained in contraction territory.
Key movements in the December PMI components included:
Both export and import indices remained above 50, suggesting continued growth in trade activity. However, the export index fell by 0.1 percentage points, while the import index dropped by 1.3 percentage points compared to November.
Respondents reported significant price increases for raw materials such as steel sheets, flour, plastic materials, carbon steel, and textiles. Stainless steel structural components were in short supply. Meanwhile, prices declined for products including steel, aluminum, paint, solder, oil, copper, eggs, cables, and grease.
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