02.03.202601:54:00UTC+00Irish Factory Activity Hits 7-Month High

The AIB Ireland Manufacturing PMI rose to 53.1 in February 2026, up from 52.2 in January, marking its highest level since July 2025. Output expanded at its quickest pace in seven months, driven by stronger demand across global markets. New orders also increased, rebounding from January’s five-month low, with the survey indicating the fastest growth in new export business since March 2025. Employment rose at its sharpest rate since June 2022. On the cost side, input prices registered their steepest increase since January 2023, reflecting higher copper, steel, and precious metals prices, alongside elevated energy costs. However, output charges rose only moderately and at a slower rate than in January. Looking ahead, business confidence improved, though slightly less than in the previous month, supported by expectations of stronger customer demand and planned expansion into export markets.