PARIS (Reuters) – Growth in French manufacturing activity slowed a bit more in September than originally forecast, according to a survey. This was due to problems with supply of goods.

IHS Markit, a data compiler, said that its September final purchasing manager’s index (PMI), for France’s manufacturing sector fell to 55.0 from 57.5 in August.

Although the index was above the 50 point line that divides an expansion from a contraction activity, the September final numbers were a little lower than the initial flash forecast of 55.2 points.

Global shipping problems and transportation issues, partly due to strict COVID-19 inspections at Chinese ports during the pandemic and other disruptions of global supply chains, has led many companies around the globe not receiving key goods supplies on time.

AlixPartners Consulting stated earlier this month that global automakers may lose $210billion in revenue due to supply chain disruptions such as shortages or delays in semiconductors.

Joe Hayes (IHS Markit Senior Economist) stated that “September Survey Data show us that intense supply-side inequalities are now beginning to seriously impede France’s manufacturing sector, and are even affecting its demand-side economy.”

Hayes added, “It’s evident that manufacturing growth is slowing. With little indications that things will improve in the short term,”