Economic activity in the US manufacturing sector accelerated in June, according to the Institute for Supply Management’s manufacturing index released today.

ISM’s manufacturing index rose in June to a reading of 60.2 from May’s reading of 58.7.

Readings above 50 generally indicate improving conditions.

The employment portion of the index edged down in June to 56.0 from May’s reading of 56.3, but still represents growth in employment for the 21st consecutive month. Thirteen industries reported increased employment, and none reported decreased employment.

“Employment maintained a modestly strong level of expansion and supported production growth during the month,” said Timothy Fiore, chair of the Institute for Supply Management Manufacturing Business Survey Committee. “Respondents noted labor market issues as a constraint to their production and their suppliers’ production capacity.”