Barclays economists said China’s stronger-than-expected March manufacturing PMI, along with gains in new export orders and production, points to a limited impact from the Middle East war on supply and demand. New export orders reached a near two-year high, supporting the view that exports will remain a key growth driver. A prolonged conflict could also accelerate the global shift to green energy, benefiting China’s leadership in the sector. However, rising input costs and muted pass-through to o

Barclays economists said China’s stronger-than-expected March manufacturing PMI, along with gains in new export orders and production, points to a limited impact from the Middle East war on supply and demand. New export orders reached a near two-year high, supporting the view that exports will remain a key growth driver. A prolonged conflict could also accelerate the global shift to green energy, benefiting China’s leadership in the sector. However, rising input costs and muted pass-through to output prices suggest ongoing pressure on corporate margins.