China's factory activity grew in January for the first time in four months. The increase was driven by rising demand after Beijing ended its zero-COVID policy.

The National Bureau of Statistics says the manufacturing sector Purchasing Managers' Index rose to 50.1. That's up from 47 in December.

The 50 mark separates growth from contraction in manufacturing activity. The index known as PMI is based on a survey of 3,200 manufacturers.

Factory activity had plunged in December because of a resurgence of coronavirus cases. But demand recovered after the wave of infections passed its peak in many cities.

The January non-manufacturing sector PMI jumped to 54.4 from 41.6. The figure surpassed the 50-mark for the first time in four months.

Restaurants, hotels and transport companies benefited during the Lunar New Year holidays in the month.

The number of travelers in the period recovered to almost 90 percent of pre-pandemic levels.

Bureau officials say businesses had far better conditions in January. But demand is still not strong enough for many firms in the manufacturing and service sectors.