Japan’s factory activity shrinks at fastest pace in seven months

TOKYO: Activity in Japan’s manufacturing sector contracted at the fastest clip in seven months in September, according to the latest PMI data, as U.S.-China trade tensions continued to cloud the global outlook.

The Jibun Bank Purchasing Managers Index fell to 48.9 from 49.3 in August, matching the lowest reading since June 2016. A number below 50 indicates a contraction. Activity in Japan’s manufacturing sector has now shrunk in seven months this year, according to the data.