BEIJING: Services activity in China declined less sharply in May, an official survey revealed on Tuesday (31 May), as COVID-19 restrictions in some cities were eased.

The official non-manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose to 47.8 in May from 41.9 in April, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics.

A reading above the 50 point mark indicates expansion in activity while a reading below indicates contraction.

Even with an easing of COVID-19 curbs across China, consumers have likely avoided shopping and eating out for fear of contracting COVID-19 and potentially being quarantined.

China’s official composite PMI, which includes both manufacturing and services, came in at 48.4, down from 42.7 in April.