An index value above 50 shows expansion in the manufacturing sector, while a value under 50 signals contraction.

Among the sub-indices that comprise the PMI, the new orders index “fell markedly” but was still over the 50 threshold.

The production volume and employment indices also fell, but still showed expansion.

Delivery times were longer in March.

Purchased inventories rose for the third month in a row, albeit at a slower pace.