China's factory-gate prices rose for a second consecutive month in April 2026, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics. The Producer Price Index (PPI) increased by 0.2% year-on-year, following a 0.1% rise in March. This marks the first back-to-back increase since late 2024.
The modest uptick was driven by higher costs in raw materials and energy, as well as steady demand from manufacturing sectors. Analysts noted that the data suggests a gradual stabilization in industrial activity, though deflationary pressures persist in consumer markets.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.3% year-on-year in April, slightly above expectations, but remained subdued due to weak consumer spending. The government has implemented stimulus measures to boost domestic demand, but the recovery remains uneven.
Economists caution that the PPI gains may be temporary, given global economic uncertainties and trade tensions. However, the data provides some relief for policymakers focused on supporting growth.
