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Manufacturing activity in the Chicago region contracted in November at the fastest pace since April 1982, the National Association of Purchasing Management said Wednesday.

NAPM-Chicago’s monthly index fell to a reading of 33.8, from 37.8 in October. Figures lower than 50 signal contraction, above that signal growth.

Economists had expected index to fall to a reading of 37, Bloomberg reported.

Chicago is a major center of U.S. manufacturing, which is one of trucking’s largest and most important customers.