Riyadh - Mubasher: The adjusted IHS Markit Saudi Arabia Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose by 4.5 points to 58.6 in September from 54.1 in August, reflecting the fastest growth rate recorded by the Kingdom's non-oil private sector in seven years.
Saudi Arabia's non-oil private sector recorded a sharp rise in new orders in September, according to a press release on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, output has registered its highest level since May amid the easing of coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions on activities and travel, which led to a strong boost in customer demand.
Although expectations for future activity were also improved, employment growth remained weak due to the reported sufficient capacity levels at companies.
Meanwhile, higher prices for raw materials and fuel have led to higher costs, with overall input price inflation recording the fastest rate since June.
The Economist at IHS Markit, David Owen, said: "After two successive falls, the latest reading showed that the economic recovery has stamina, and the relaxation of pandemic measures will release new waves of demand."
Owen added: "Overall cost pressures have remained modest so far but could intensify if raw material price rises spill over to more parts of the economy. The data will be eyed closely in coming months for any further inflationary risk."
