February manufacturing PMI rises to 50.6 but Gulf conflict risks loom

The SIPMM warns that US-Iran tensions are driving oil prices and disrupting supplies.

Singapore’s purchasing managers’ index (PMI) edged up 0.1 point month-on-month to 50.6 in February, according to the Singapore Institute of Purchasing and Materials Management (SIPMM).

The increase was attributed to stronger expansions in new orders, new exports, and employment. However, factory output and input purchases grew at a slower pace.

The latest PMI readings point to continued demand in the manufacturing sector, particularly from the electronics and semiconductor cluster, according to Stephen Poh, executive director of the SIPMM.

However, Poh noted that rising geopolitical risks could affect the outlook.

“Escalating military tensions between the US and Iran have heightened global geopolitical risks and driven oil prices higher, amidst concerns over potential supply disruptions,” he added.

The supplier deliveries index fell for the second consecutive month, following two months of moderation, suggesting longer delivery lead times.

Meanwhile, input prices, order backlog, and future business expanded at a faster pace, whilst the finished goods index returned to expansion.

Follow the link for more news on

Singapore Institute of Purchasing and Materials Management

PMI

If you've been wondering whether SBR could work for your company — yes, probably.

A lot of the companies we partner with started as readers. They'd been following our coverage for a while, saw their own customers and competitors in it, and eventually asked the obvious question: could we do something with you? The answer is usually yes. The shape of it depends on what you're trying to do.

The options are broader than most people assume — thought leadership articles, sponsored content, industry summits across Southeast Asia, regional awards programmes, podcasts, and media placements in print and digital. Some partners use one channel; most use a mix. We figure out the right combination by starting with your brief, not with our rate card.

So if the question has been on your mind, here's the easy way to ask it.

We'll tell you honestly whether we can help, and how. It's a better use of everyone's time.

Book a meeting

| Or download the media kit (PDF)

240,000 senior readers quarterly in print Top 1,700 Singapore companies reached

7 markets across Southeast Asia