AI demand, stronger orders lift Singapore's PMI to 51.7

New orders, exports, output, inventories, and employment recorded stronger growth.

Singapore’s manufacturing sector expanded at a faster pace in September, with the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rising 0.2 point from the previous month to 51.7.

The reading marked the sector’s 14th consecutive month of expansion, supported by stronger growth in new orders, new exports, factory output, input inventories, and employment.

The supplier deliveries index, however, contracted at a faster pace for the ninth consecutive month, reflecting prolonged lead times and continued supply chain constraints.

“Singapore’s manufacturing sector continues to benefit from AI-related demand, with electronics supporting stronger orders, production and employment,” said SIPMM executive director Stephen Poh.

“However, rising input costs and prolonged supplier lead times are intensifying operational pressures,” he said.

Poh added that manufacturers were facing higher order backlogs and lower finished goods inventories as they worked to keep up with demand despite continued supply constraints.

The future business index remained in expansion territory for the 11th consecutive month, pointing to sustained manufacturer confidence in near-term business conditions.

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