WASHINGTON, DC — According to the American Chemistry Council (ACC), the U.S. Chemical Production Regional Index (U.S. CPRI) slipped 0.3 percent in August, following an upwardly revised 0.2 percent gain in July. Year-over-year production remains positive.
On a three-month moving average (3MMA), output of the nation’s overall manufacturing sector edged higher by 0.2 percent in August, following a 0.1 percent gain in July. Within the manufacturing sector, output in several key chemistry end-use markets grew, including semiconductors, structural panels, furniture, appliances, rubber products, apparel, machinery, motor vehicles, construction supplies and metal products. Manufacturing demand is a significant driver of demand for chemistry products. Recent months have seen weaker growth as a result of lower exports and the impact of the sequester. Higher construction activity and vehicle sales, however, in addition to recovery in Europe and faster growth in China, will increase demand for manufactured goods, including chemicals.