National Bureau of Statistics monitors economic activity, publishes official statistics, and informs policy with up-to-date data on growth, trade, and prices.
S&P Global surveys have shown UK manufacturing and services have expanded in August while construction has continued to contract. Services PMI has risen to 52.5 and manufacturing sits at 51.7, but the construction PMI fell to 44.3, its 20th consecutive sub-50 reading, driven by a sharp drop in housebuilding and subdued new orders.
China has posted a contraction in retail sales and a sharper drop in urban investment in May, signaling a deepening economic slowdown even as factory output improves.Officials flag a need for technology development and stronger employment support amid a K-shaped recovery.
Inflation has eased modestly in May, with headline CPI slowing in several countries. In South Africa, inflation rose modestly due to higher fuel prices, while food inflation continues to subside. Across nations Nigeria and Malawi also show mixed patterns in food and non-food prices, reflecting uneven price pressures.
China's official manufacturing PMI has edged into expansion at 50.3 in June from May's 50.0, with improvements in new orders and production. Export demand remains a key engine, while domestic consumption shows caution amid a prolonged property downturn. Analysts expect policy support to sustain momentum.