Insurance Australia Group Acquires 90% of Royal Automobile Club of Queensland's Underwriting Business

Australia's manufacturing sector expansion accelerated in August, according to S&P Global. The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rose to 56.6, up from 55.8 in July. Output, new orders, and employment all increased at faster rates. However, input costs and supplier lead times continued to rise, indicating ongoing supply chain pressures. The data suggests a strong rebound in Australia's manufacturing sector despite ongoing supply chain challenges.

Australia's manufacturing sector continued its robust recovery in August, as indicated by the latest Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) data from S&P Global. The PMI rose to 56.6, up from 55.8 in July, signaling a solid expansion in the sector [1].

The expansion was driven by increased output, new orders, and employment. Output rose at a faster rate, indicating a strong rebound in production. New orders also surged, reflecting better underlying demand conditions and rising client interest. Employment grew at a marginal but extended rate, indicating a sustained period of job creation [1].

However, the data also highlighted ongoing challenges. Input costs and supplier lead times continued to rise, suggesting persistent supply chain pressures. Despite these challenges, the overall trend indicates a strong rebound in Australia's manufacturing sector [1].

The recovery comes amidst broader geopolitical shifts and trade uncertainties. Companies like Asia Pacific Wire & Cable Corporation Limited (APWC) are capitalizing on these changes by diversifying their production footprint and strengthening supply chain resilience. APWC recently launched a $34.2 million rights offering to fund new production facilities in low-tariff regions, demonstrating its strategic alignment with global supply chain realignments [2].

For investors and financial professionals, the data underscores the resilience of Australia's manufacturing sector. Despite ongoing supply chain pressures, the sector continues to expand, driven by solid demand and strategic investments. As companies like APWC adapt to the evolving trade environment, their ability to execute on capital raises and geographic diversification will be key to sustained profitability [2].

References:
[1] https://forex.tradingcharts.com/international_financial_news/australia_manufacturing_pmi_picks_steam_08312025_0083.html
[2] https://www.ainvest.com/news/apwc-strategic-capital-raise-rights-offering-secure-long-term-growth-shifting-global-supply-chain-2508/