The HALPIM Manufacturing PMI edged slightly higher to 51.2 in March 2025, up from 51.1 in February, marking its highest point since May 2024. Despite this increase, it remained below both the long-term monthly average and the average levels typically observed in March over the past three years. Notably, the employment index improved and purchase prices showed robust growth, indicating strong upward price pressure. However, both production volumes and new orders declined, although they continued to indicate expansion. In terms of external demand, the export indicator fell below the critical 50-point threshold, whereas the import indicator stayed above it.