China’s factory activity returned to growth in September, an official survey showed. The manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) rose to 50.1 from 49.8 in August, ending two straight months of contraction.

The reading matched the median forecast in a Reuters poll. A figure above 50 signals expansion, while below 50 signals contraction.

New orders rose to 50.5 and production to 51.7. The non-manufacturing PMI, covering services and construction, improved to 50.2 from 49.0.

A private survey by RatingDog put manufacturing PMI at 52.1. Analysts credited the AI boom and fewer weather disruptions, but warned that weak consumption and the property downturn still weigh on the outlook.

China has relied heavily on exports and factory output to support growth this year, as weak domestic demand and a long property slump weigh on confidence. Its goods trade surplus is on pace to top $1 trillion for a second straight year. Economists say more government support may be needed in the coming months.