The Australian Industry Group Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) rose by 1.8 points to 53.1 points in August (seasonally adjusted),indicating a more convincing expansion. Results above 50 points indicate expansion with higher results indicating stronger grow thin the month.Manufacturing conditions improved in August, with increasing levels of production and rising exports. Demand from defence and mining projects lifted the machinery and equipment sector into expansion, but the metals sector and other heavy industrial manufacturers are still reporting tough trading conditions. The food ... (full story)