South Africa’s manufacturing sector showed signs of stabilisation in October 2026, as the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) climbed to 49.6, up from 48.7 in September 2026. While the reading remains marginally below the 50-point threshold that separates contraction from expansion, the improvement suggests easing pressure on the sector.
The latest data, updated on 02 November 2026, indicate that manufacturing activity is moving closer to neutral territory after being in contraction. The uptick in October may point to a gradual recovery in demand and output conditions, although sustained readings above 50 will be needed to confirm a more robust turnaround in South Africa’s industrial landscape.
