S&P Global(US:SPGI) Xin Hua Cai Jing·2025-06-02 02:47Core Insights - The S&P Global Australia Manufacturing PMI decreased from 51.7 to 51 in May 2025, marking the lowest level since February of the same year, indicating a slowdown in the expansion of the manufacturing sector [1][2] - The manufacturing sector has remained above the neutral level of 50 for five consecutive months, suggesting ongoing expansion despite the reduced pace [1] Manufacturing Sector Performance - In May, the growth of new orders in the Australian manufacturing sector was at its lowest in three months, partially influenced by the recent federal election [1][2] - New export orders saw their first increase in three months, indicating potential recovery in international demand [1][2] Production and Employment Trends - Factory output experienced its second decline of the year in May, alongside decreases in purchasing activity and inventory levels [1] - Despite the drop in output, manufacturing firms continued to increase employment, leading to the fastest reduction in backlogs since November of the previous year [2] Cost and Pricing Dynamics - Average input costs in the manufacturing sector rose due to increased raw material and transportation costs, but the rate of increase was lower than in April and the lowest since November of the previous year [2] - The ability of manufacturing firms to raise sales prices at a rate below historical averages suggests a cautious approach to pricing amid fluctuating costs [2] Future Outlook - Forward-looking indicators suggest that manufacturing output may rebound in the coming months, supported by the growth in new export orders and a rise in business confidence [2] - The stabilization of the macroeconomic and trade environment is expected to contribute positively to sales growth over the next 12 months [2]