BEIJING - The purchasing managers' index (PMI) for China's non-manufacturing sector came in at 53.6 in May, up from 53.2 in April, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said Sunday.

A reading above 50 indicates expansion, while a reading below it reflects contraction.

The sub-index for business activities in the construction sector accelerated pace of growth in May, expanding 1.1 points from the previous month to 60.8, while that for the service sector steadily recovered, edging up 0.2 points from April.

Driven by policies on stimulating consumption as well as the effects from the consumption boom during the five-day May Day holiday, consumer market continues to warm up, said NBS senior statistician Zhao Qinghe.

Among the 21 service sectors surveyed, 15 saw expansion in their business activities in May.

The transport, accommodation and catering, telecommunications as well as Internet and software sector logged more vibrant business activities in May, with their sub-index all increasing from last month and standing above 55.

However, some industries still face relatively slow work and production restoration.

The sub-index for business activities in the cultural, sport and entertainment sectors came in at 44.5, remaining at a low level in May, according to Zhao.

Sunday's data also showed the PMI of China's manufacturing sector eased to 50.6 in May from 50.8 in April.