DHAKA: Asian stocks saw sharp falls on Friday as mounting concerns over China's slowing economy continued to affect global markets.

It follows big falls in US and European markets on Thursday, with the Dow Jones dropping more than 2%, reports bbc.com

After falling more than 3% on Thursday, China's Shanghai Composite index was down another 2.1%, to 3,585.36 points.

Data released on Friday morning showed Chinese factory activity falling to its lowest level in more than six years.

The private Caixin/Markit manufacturing purchasing managers' index (PMI) dropped to 47.1 from 47.8 in July. A figure below 50 shows contraction in the sector and one above means growth.

As domestic and export demand dwindle, Friday's data is likely to add to global worries that the Chinese economy is set for a continued slowdown.

In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng index followed the mainland's trend and was 1.8% lower at 22,337.11 points.

BDST: 1352 HRS, AUG 21, 2015
RS