India’s February 2026 final Manufacturing PMI, compiled by HSBC and S&P Global, stood at 56.9, slightly below the forecast of 57.2. Despite the dip, the reading remains well above the 50-mark, indicating continued expansion in factory activity, supported by robust domestic demand and steady employment growth.
India’s manufacturing sector maintained strong momentum in February 2026, with the HSBC/S&P Global Manufacturing PMI at 56.9, compared to a forecast of 57.2. While marginally lower than expectations, the figure highlights sustained expansion in factory output, new orders, and employment.
The PMI reading above 50 signals growth, and February’s performance reflects resilience in domestic demand despite global headwinds. Export sales, however, showed only modest improvement, marking the slowest rise in over a year. Rising input costs and inflationary pressures remain challenges, but business sentiment continues to be optimistic.
Key Highlights:
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Final PMI: 56.9 in February 2026 (forecast: 57.2).
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Growth Signal: Above 50, indicating continued expansion.
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Domestic Demand: Strong orders driving factory output.
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Exports: Slowest growth in 16 months.
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Employment: Modest rise as firms scale up production.
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Inflation: Input and output prices continue to climb.
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Outlook: Manufacturers remain positive about growth prospects despite cost pressures.
India’s manufacturing sector remains on a solid growth trajectory, with domestic demand acting as the primary driver, even as global conditions present challenges.
Sources: HSBC/S&P Global PMI release, Trading Economics, Business Standard