HSBC has launched South Africa’s first purchasing managers index that looks at the whole economy, and it revealed the country is growing.

South Africa’s purchasing managers’ index has risen above the critical mark of 50 in the fourth quarter following a strike-filled third quarter.

Factory output have expanded as weak currency increased demand for South Africa’s manufactured goods.

Helped along by a weaker rand, factory output has slowly improved over recent months.

Results show manufacturing has rebounded, but the outlook for the sector is expected to remain challenging.

SA’s purchasing managers’ index (PMI) fell for the third consecutive month to a seasonally-adjusted 51,1 in May from 55,2 the previous month.

South Africa’s purchasing managers’ index (PMI) dipped in April, a survey showed on Monday, but stayed above the crucial 50 level.

South Africa’s purchasing managers’ index rose to a seasonally adjusted 50,3 points in November, breaking through the 50 mark.

South Africa’s purchasing managers index fell in July, after rising for two months, as manufacturing output and new orders declined more sharply.

South Africa’s purchasing managers index rose for the second month in a row in June, indicating that the worst of the decline may be over.

SA’s purchasing managers index fell to a record low in November, data showed on Monday, reinforcing calls for a cut in interest rates.

South Africa’s purchasing managers index (PMI) dipped to 46,2 in October from an upwardly revised 47,7 in September.