Japan's factory activity returns to growth after seven months, PMI shows

TOKYO, Jan 23 (Reuters) - Japan's manufacturing activity expanded in January for the first time in seven months, buoyed by the biggest rise in new export ​orders in more than four years, a private-sector survey showed. The S&P Global flash ‌Japan Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) increased to 51.5 in January from December's final reading of 50.0, marking a ‌return to expansionary territory for the first time since June 2025. Readings above 50.0 indicate growth in activity, while those below ...