BEIJING, Dec 28 Reuters China39;s manufacturing activity likely contracted for the third consecutive month, a Reuters poll showed on Thursday, weighed by soft demand for manufactured goods, a reading that would embolden calls for more policy support.

The official purchasing managers39; index PMI likely was at 49.5 in December from last month39;s 49.4, according to the median forecast of 24 economists in a poll conducted 2228 December. The 50point mark separates growth from contraction.

The world39;s secondbiggest economy has staggered following a feeble postpandemic recovery, held back by a property crisis, local government debt risks and slow global growth.

The government has in recent months unveiled a series of measures to prop up growth.

Only three of 24 economists expected an expansion of factory activity in December, with the highest forecast reading of 50.5, showed the poll.

New bank lending in China jumped less than expected in November, even as the central bank keeps policy accommodative to lift confidence and spur the recovery.

Ratings agency Moody39;s in December slapped a downgrade warning on China39;s credit rating as property pressures mount.

China will strive to expand domestic demand, ensure a speedy economic recovery and promote stable growth, according to an interim report on the country39;s 14th fiveyear plan published by parliament on Wednesday.

The official PMI will be released on Sunday. The private Caixin factory survey will be issued on…