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The Ain al-Mreisseh neighborhood in Beirut, July 31, 2026. (Credit: Philippe Hage Boutros / L'Orient-Le Jour) Add as preferred on Google After remaining in positive territory throughout the summer despite adverse conditions, the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) — which measures private sector activity based on a survey of purchasing managers at 400 companies — fell below the 50-point threshold in October, signaling a contraction in economic activity.The index, updated monthly by BLOM Bank, stood at 49.8 points, down from 50.5 in September. The decline was limited, however, and the index remained close to the 50-point mark after spending four consecutive months above it. According to analyst Helmi Mrad, the drop was mainly driven by the sub-indices for new orders, which fell from 50.1 points in September to 49.4 in October, and new export orders, which were already being hit by the fallout from the regional conflict between Iran and the United States in countries... You have reached your article limit.Stay informed as events unfold across a region in flux.Subscribe for $0.5/month for the first 3 months. Subscribe now Log in This article is only available to L’Orient Today subscribers. Subscribe now Log in Create a free account to continue reading this article. You’ll also receive The Morning Brief, our must-read daily digest of Middle East news. Opt out anytime Email Address Password Email Address Password I would like to receive special offers from L'Orient Today as well as selections of the best articles. Register By creating an account, you agree to the terms and conditions of use and our privacy policy. Register Or register with: Facebook
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