NEW YORK – Economic activity in the US manufacturing sector contracted more than expected in November, according to a survey released on Monday, pointing to lingering concerns about tariffs. 

The reading from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) fell to 48.2 from 48.7, the ninth straight month of contraction. A rating of 50 separates growth from contraction. 

The survey showed declines in new orders and employment, while prices rose. On the positive side, the survey showed improvement in production and supplier delivery. 

Of the 15 sectors surveyed, 11 reported contraction, including apparel, fabricated me t al products, and transportation equipment. The four that included growth included computer and electronic products. 

A chemical products company was among those pointing to tariffs as a drag, saying “tariffs and economic uncertainty continue to weigh on demand for adhesives and sealants, which are primarily used in building construction,”according to an ISM press release. 

“At any given point, trade with our international partners is clouded and difficult,” said a company in electrical equipment, appliances, and components that pointed to confusion over changing rules. 

“Conditions are more trying than during the coronavirus pandemic in terms of supply chain uncertainty,” added the company in electrical equipment, appliances, and components – Nampa/AFP