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South Korea's Factory Activity Plummets to Two-Year Low

5/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

South Korea's factory activity took a significant hit in April, with the Purchasing Managers Index plummeting to 47.5—the lowest in over two years. This downturn, fueled by US tariffs and sluggish demand, starkly contrasts with recent trade data. Manufacturers are feeling the strain, reflecting the bleakest outlook since June 2020, aside from the pandemic's impact.

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Story summary

South Korea's factory activity took a significant hit in April, with the Purchasing Managers Index plummeting to 47.5—the lowest in over two years. This downturn, fueled by US tariffs and sluggish demand, starkly contrasts with recent trade data. Manufacturers are feeling the strain, reflecting the bleakest outlook since June 2020, aside from the pandemic's impact.