Bangladesh, May 9 -- Bangladesh's overall economic activities expanded at a faster pace in April, supported mainly by stronger performance in agriculture and a rebound in manufacturing, according to the latest Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI).

The survey pointed to continued business optimism despite external risks, although the construction sector remained weak for a third consecutive month.

The Bangladesh PMI rose by 1.1 points to 54.6 in April from the previous month, indicating a faster pace of expansion, the report said on today. The survey showed that all major sectors except construction recorded expansion during the month.

A PMI reading above 50 indicates economic expansion, 50 indicates no change, and below 50 signals contract...