Vietnam’s PMI moved back above 50 for the first time in six months. At 50.5, the index was up from 48.7 in July and pointed to a marginal monthly improvement in business conditions in the sector.

Manufacturers saw the first increase in new orders in six months. New export business also rose, following five months of decline.

Firms responded to new orders by expanding their purchasing activity at a solid pace. The rise was the most pronounced since September 2022.