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Saudi non-oil activity growth slows in May, PMI reveals

Growth in nonoil service activity in Saudi Arabia alleviated in May as brand-new orders rose at the slowest rate in 25 months, a survey showed on Tuesday.

The seasonally-adjusted Riyad Bank Saudi Arabia Acquiring Supervisors' Index fell to 56.4 in May, from 57.0 the previous month, and was the 2nd lowest reading in 22 months. A reading above 50 marks growth in activity.

The output sub index slipped to 60.1, its lowest level considering that January and down from 61.9 in April, although it stayed securely in expansion mode, with development supported by demand and the conclusion of pending orders.

The sub index for brand-new orders hit its least expensive level in simply over 2 years at 59.5, down from 61.0 in April, with slowing market conditions and increased competitors pointed out as factors for the deceleration.

General numbers, however, continue to suggest strong demand for non-oil sectors which are a top priority as the kingdom weans itself off an oil reliance and has actually sped up policies to drive investment into tourist and construction and broaden the private sector.

Nevertheless, the surge in need has actually also led to price pressures affecting input prices and personnel expenses, although the increase in output rates has actually been observed at a slower pace, stated Naif Al-Ghaith, Riyad Bank's chief economic expert.

This balancing act reflects the obstacles faced by companies in managing costs while trying to profit from the broadening market, he added.

Self-confidence amongst businesses about the 12-month company outlook dropped in May to the weakest level because January.

(source: Reuters)