Producers reported the fastest increases in new orders and output since February, led by intermediate and capital goods, while consumer goods makers saw slower growth. Demand strength, infrastructure projects, and new business gains were cited as drivers. Domestic demand was the main growth engine, though export orders rose solidly, with gains from Asia, Europe, Kenya, Nigeria, and the Middle East.

Purchasing prices climbed at the second-fastest pace since April 2022, driven by energy, fuel, materials, and transport costs. Capital goods faced the steepest input cost inflation. Factory gate charges rose but at a slower pace than input costs, with only 8% of firms passing increases to customers due to competition.

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