"China's Factory Sector Contracts for Third Consecutive Month Amid Economic Challenges"
China's manufacturing sector experienced its third consecutive month of contraction in December, with the official purchasing managers index (PMI) dropping to 49, indicating sluggish demand and a sluggish economy. Despite government efforts to stimulate growth through increased spending, interest rate cuts, and easing property curbs, global demand remains weak, affecting supply chains across Asia. While manufacturing struggles, China's non-manufacturing PMI saw a slight increase, and the construction industry showed growth, suggesting a mixed economic picture as the country transitions from its pandemic response.