China manufacturing contracts in July

China's factory activity unexpectedly declined in July, entering contraction for the first time in five months as measured by the official manufacturing PMI falling to 49.2. The slowdown was driven by weakening domestic demand, typhoon disruptions, sluggish property spending, and the fading of an export rush that had supported second-quarter growth.

This is a long-running storyline that has developed over 7 days. The homepage highlights its most recent activity, so the outlet count there reflects the latest wave. The totals above cover the full run.