India's Manufacturing Growth Slows in October Despite Strong Rise in Export Orders, PMI Survey Shows

# India's Manufacturing Growth Slows in October Despite Strong Rise in Export Orders, PMI Survey Shows **NEW DELHI, November 2, 2026:** India's manufacturing sector continued to expand in October, although the pace of growth slowed compared with the previous month, according to a private-sector business survey released on Monday. The survey indicated that weaker domestic demand and slower employment growth affected factory activity. However, a significant increase in new export orders helped support the sector. ### Export Orders Provide Support The survey showed that international demand for Indian manufactured goods strengthened during October. The rise in export orders helped offset some of the slowdown in domestic demand, providing support to manufacturers and exporters. ### Factory Price Pressures Ease Another positive development was the moderation in output price pressures. According to the survey, factory selling-price inflation eased to its weakest level in nearly four years, indicating that manufacturers faced less pressure to increase selling prices. ### Employment Growth Remains Weak Despite continued expansion in manufacturing activity, hiring growth weakened during October. The findings suggest that businesses remained cautious about increasing employment amid uncertainty surrounding domestic demand. ### What Does This Mean for India's Economy? Manufacturing is an important part of India's economic development, supporting employment, exports and industrial investment. The October survey presents a mixed picture: stronger overseas demand and easing price pressures provided support, while weaker domestic demand and employment growth highlighted continuing challenges. The survey findings are based on private-sector business responses and should be considered alongside official industrial production and economic data.