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 rose slightly and remained over the 50 threshold.

The production volume index was also higher and continued to show expansion.

The employment index was slightly down, but still showed expansion.

Delivery times were shorter in August. Purchased inventories rose for the eighth month in a row, and at a slightly faster pace.