An index value above 50 shows expansion in the manufacturing sector, while a value under 50 signals contraction, noted state news wire MTI.

Among the sub-indices that comprise the PMI, the new orders index “strengthened a bit” and remained over the 50 threshold.

The production volume index fell, but continued to show expansion.

The employment index increased and was over 50 for the fourth month in a row.

Delivery times were longer than in August. Purchased inventories were up for the second month in a row.