March PMI® survey data from S&P Global pointed to a weakening in several measures of Canadian manufacturing sector performance in March. Production and employment both fell slightly, whilst new orders were down modestly amid reports that high prices, tariffs and generally softer demand had weighed on sales volumes. Purchasing activity was reduced fractionally as firms focused on inventory management. Some firms also noted delays in the receipt of ordered inputs owing to supply chain disruption caused by the outbreak of war in the Middle East. The conflict also served to push up energy, fuel and supplier charges in ... (full story)