National Focus

Local manufactures boost production despite globally weakening signs

By Hoai An November 14, 2018 | 11:41 AM GMT+7

Although the global demand is slowing down, Vietnam manufactures expect product diversification, robust demand conditions and set targets to boost production in the coming 12 months.

According to Nikkei – IHS Market’s recent press releases, Vietnam Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) – a composite single-figure indicator of manufacturing performance – climbed from a ten-month low up to 53.9 in October from 51.5 in September.

It pointed to the strongest improvement in the health of the sector since July. Manufacturers scaled up production for the eleventh month running, with growth being the sharpest since July, leading to the employment expanding for the thirty-first month running.

New business increased markedly and at a quicker pace than in September, supported by favourable demand conditions internally and externally. Indeed, new export orders rose at the fastest rate in three months as companies benefited from expansion into new markets and greater client bases.

Vietnam manufactures boost production despite signs of weakening global demand
PMI of Vietnam since 2011

Vietnamese manufacturers also stepped up their outlays on raw materials and semi-finished products, with input purchase power expanding solidly and at a quicker pace than seen in September. 

Strong demand for materials exerted some pressure on supply chains as highlighted by a renewed increase in vendor delivery times.

The upturn in quantities of purchases aided companies in their stock building initiatives. Holdings of inputs increased markedly in October, with the pace of accumulation being the quickest since the survey started in March 2011. 

Similarly inventories of finished goods rose solidly and at the quickest pace in almost three-and-a-half years.

Manufacturers in Vietnam expect product diversification, robust demand conditions and set targets to boost production in the coming 12 months. 

Commenting on the Vietnamese Manufacturing PMI survey data, Andrew Harker, Associate Director at IHS Markit, which compiles the survey, said: “Vietnamese manufacturers allayed fears of a protracted slowdown across the sector, with stronger rises in output, new orders and employment all recorded in October.”

“The success of firms in continuing to secure greater volumes of new work despite signs of weakening global demand stands them in good stead as the year draws to a close,” emphasized he.

Lives under the scorching sun: Outdoor workers racing against climate change

Lives under the scorching sun: Outdoor workers racing against climate change

National Focus -  3 month

Under unforgiving conditions, the outdoor workers - the backbone of urban economies - endure the harshest impacts of climate change while remaining overlooked by social safety nets. Their resilience and struggles highlight the urgent need for better protection in the face of rising temperatures and precarious livelihoods.

CEO Group chairman unveils guide to Vietnam real estate for foreigners

CEO Group chairman unveils guide to Vietnam real estate for foreigners

National Focus -  5 month

Doan Van Binh, Chairman of CEO Group and Vice President of the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, introduced his latest book, “Vietnam Real Estate for Foreigners,” at a launch event in Hanoi on Friday.

Women leading the charge in Vietnam's green transition

Women leading the charge in Vietnam's green transition

National Focus -  6 month

Acting for increased women’s participation and leadership in climate action, Vietnam can accelerate a transition that is more inclusive, just, and impactful.

Steam for girls: A journey of passionate and creative girls

Steam for girls: A journey of passionate and creative girls

National Focus -  7 month

The "Steam for girls 2024" competition provides a creative platform for Steam and an opportunity for students to connect with peers from various regions within Vietnam and internationally.

Politburo backs North-South high-speed railway proposal

Politburo backs North-South high-speed railway proposal

National Focus -  7 month

The Politburo on Wednesday supported a plan to invest in a high-speed railway along the country’s North-South axis, marking a crucial step for the multi-billion-dollar project aimed at boosting economic growth and infrastructure development.

Ho Chi Minh City inaugurates Japan-funded wastewater treatment plant

Ho Chi Minh City inaugurates Japan-funded wastewater treatment plant

National Focus -  8 month

Ho Chi Minh City has inaugurated the expanded Binh Hung wastewater treatment plant, now the largest facility of its kind in Vietnam.