China's manufacturing Purchasing Manager's Index stood at 49.2 in November, marking contraction for the eighth consecutive month, reports Hong Kong's South China Morning Post.

A reading above 50 signals expansion, while below 50 indicates contraction. The figure was slightly higher than October's 49, the National Bureau of Statistics said.

The result matched forecasts of 49.2 from economists polled by financial data provider Wind. The monthly index is based on survey responses from supply chain managers across multiple industries.

The manufacturing sector has been pressured this year by weak domestic demand, tighter competition rules and rising trade tensions. government measures to stimulate consumption have had limited effect, with spending held back by low consumer confidence and a troubled property market.