(Alliance News) - Ireland's manufacturing sector expanded at a faster pace in April, supported by a notable increase in new orders and export orders, S&P Global reported Friday.
The AIB Ireland manufacturing purchasing managers' index rose to 54.9 points in April from 53.7 in March.
A reading above the 50-point neutral mark indicates an overall increase in month-on-month business activity, while a reading below signals a contraction.
Production volume increased at a slightly slower pace than the eight-month high recorded in March, with survey respondents highlighting improved order books and resilient demand.
"This was also evident in the surge in new orders and export orders, as firms reported a boost to sales in anticipation of rising prices and supply shortages. Firms cited improving demand from UK and European markets, while others noted the war in the Middle East as having a negative influence on new business from abroad," said David McNamara, AIB chief economist.
April saw the strongest increase in new business from abroad since August 2021, and total new work grew at the fastest pace in a year.
Employment levels in the sector increased and April had the joint-fastest growth since June 2022, equalling with February.
Manufacturers faced longer supplier delivery times with around 23% reporting worsening vendor performance compared to only 1% suggesting an improvement.
Input cost inflation rose at the fastest pace since September 2022, with 55% seeing an increase in purchase prices versus 2% who reported a decline.
Consequently, factory gate price inflation saw the steepest rise in more than three years.
"Looking ahead, Irish manufacturers' assessment of the outlook for activity levels over the coming year has diminished. Around 38% predict an increase in output over the next year, while only 13% forecast a reduction," AIB's McNamara said. "Manufacturers cited heightened geopolitical tensions as weighing on sentiment in April."
S&P Global compiles the PMI each month using survey responses from a panel of around 250 manufacturers.
By Elijah Dale, Alliance News senior reporter Asia-Pacific
Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com
Copyright 2026 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.



