Core Viewpoint - The Chinese service sector is experiencing a slowdown in new order growth, reaching a 28-month low, while costs are rising, and service prices are declining, leading to a drop in industry optimism to a historical low point [2][11][14]. Service Sector Performance - In April, the Caixin Services PMI stood at 50.7, down from 51.9, indicating continued expansion but at the slowest pace since September of the previous year [2]. - The composite output index fell from 51.8 in March to 51.1 in April, marking a three-month low in production activity [5][15]. - New business volume growth has slowed, with the rate being the weakest in seven months, and new export orders have also contracted [5][16]. Employment and Cost Trends - The employment index in the service sector has fallen into contraction territory for the second consecutive month, reflecting cost-cutting measures by companies [9][14]. - Average input costs have risen, driven by increasing raw material prices and wages, yet service firms continue to lower selling prices for the third month in a row due to weak market demand [9][14]. Market Sentiment and Future Outlook - Business optimism has declined to the second-lowest level since the survey began in November 2005, primarily due to concerns over trade policy changes [14]. - Despite the pessimistic outlook, companies expect that new marketing strategies and efficiency improvements will help drive growth in the next 12 months [14]. - The overall economic outlook remains cautious, with external trade uncertainties significantly impacting business sentiment [19].
中国4月财新服务业PMI 50.7,新订单增速放缓
Hua Er Jie Jian Wen·2025-05-06 03:21