US Chemical Activity Barometer Suggests 2015 Gains

The Chemical Activity Barometer (CAB) of the American Chemistry Council (ACC) was up 0.1% in April, as measured on a three-month moving average, the US chemical producers' association said.

Having reached an index of 98.1, last seen in January 2008, ACC said the CAB - reflecting production, equity prices and product prices, along with other indicators - remains 2.6% ahead of the year-ago figure. This, it says, suggests that gains in business activity will continue into the fourth quarter.

"All of the major production-related indicators are up and we might continue to see a strengthening. Construction-related chemistries have been adversely affected by bad weather so far this year, but we expect an improvement as we get further into spring," said Kevin Swift, the association's chief economist.

"The data on plastic resins and polymers for packaging suggest that retail sales should continue to be strong as well," Swift added.

The activity barometer is derived from a composite index of chemical industry activity and, as the industry has been found to consistently lead the US economy's business cycle, it can be used to determine turning points and likely trends in the wider economy.

Whitepaper

Excellence in Pharmaceutical Distribution and The Critical Role of Good Distribution Practice (GDP)
Setting the Standard

Excellence in Pharmaceutical Distribution and The Critical Role of Good Distribution Practice (GDP)

Are you ready to elevate your pharmaceutical operations? Download our exclusive whitepaper and discover how compliance with Good Distribution Practice (GDP) is essential for the safety and integrity of pharmaceuticals.

Free Virtual Event

Vaccine Manufacturing
Bioprocess Forum

Vaccine Manufacturing

Join global experts and innovators for a two-day virtual event exploring the latest breakthroughs and best practices in vaccine manufacturing. Discover how new technologies and process innovations are shaping the future of vaccine production, safety, and scalability.

most read

Photo
28.07.2025 • NewsChemistry

VCI Welcomes US-EU Customs Deal

The German Chemical Industry Association (VCI) welcomes the fact that Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and US President Donald Trump have averted the danger of a trade war for the time being.