China's manufacturing activity unexpectedly contracted in January, an official factory survey showed on Monday, its weakest since August, keeping alive calls for stimulus in the world's second-largest economy.

Policymakers have battled to reverse a post-pandemic slump driven by a crisis in the property sector, weak consumption and high government debt.

China’s official gauge of factory activity tumbled into contractionary territory in January as factories suspended operations days ahead of the Lunar New Year Holiday.

China's January non-manufacturing activity grew but at a slower pace than in December, an official survey showed on Monday, suggesting policymakers need to introduce even more stimulus measures to prop up depressed domestic demand.

China’s manufacturing purchasing managers’ index contracted in January, denying the economy an early boost in 2025.