Manufacturing is decreasing in Italy and France according to Markit's latest purchasing managers' index data.
In August, both countries’ readings came in below the neutral 50 level, with France recording 46.9 and Italy 49.8. Germany scored 51.4 and Spain recorded 52.8.
Howard Archer, chief European economist at HIS Global Insight said: “The best that can be said for the August Eurozone manufacturing purchasing managers’ survey is that it indicates that the sector is still growing.”
The overall Eurozone manufacturing PMI was recorded at 50.7, just above the neutral level.
In contrast, Ireland scored their highest reading in almost 15 years at 57.3, as well as a positive outlook for Greece, recording 50.1.
