The U.S. Chemical Production Regional Index (U.S. CPRI) expanded by 0.2% in March, following a 0.4% decline in February, and a 0.6% decline in January, as measured on a three-month moving average (3MMA) basis, according to the American Chemistry Council (ACC). During March, chemical output moved higher in all regions, except the Gulf Coast, which saw a decline and the Southeast region that experienced flat growth. The Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions reportedly posted the highest growth during the month.

Chemical production was reportedly mixed over the same three month period. There were gains in the production 3MMA output trend of basic inorganic chemicals, organic chemicals, industrial gases, synthetic rubber, synthetic dyes and pigments, coatings, consumer products. These gains were offset by declines in the output trend in pesticides, fertilizers, manufactured fibers, adhesives, and plastic resins.

On a 3MMA basis, manufacturing activity edged higher by 0.4% in March, following a 0.7% gain in February. Output reportedly expanded in several chemistry-intensive manufacturing industries, including food and beverages; motor vehicles; construction supplies; fabricated metal products; computers and electronics; semiconductors; petroleum refining; iron and steel; foundries; plastic products; structural panels; apparel; and furniture.

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