US sees increase in monthly chemical production

The US chemical production regional index (CPRI) rose by 0.8% in December after a 0.3% gain in November, the American Chemistry Council (ACC) said in a report made available Monday.

This gain was driven by increases in the US Gulf Coast and Ohio Valley regions, according to the ACC.

For the second consecutive month, production increased in all seven regions of the US. For the year as a whole, the CPRI was ahead by 1.2%.

On a three-month moving average (3MMA), output of the nation’s overall manufacturing sector was 0.6% higher, following a similar gain November. 

Within the manufacturing sector, output in several key chemistry end-use markets expanded, including appliances, motor vehicles, construction materials, fabricated metal products, computers, semiconductors, plastic products, structural panels, printing, apparel, and furniture.

Also measured on a 3MMA basis, overall chemical production was mixed. Gains in the output of chlor-alkali, industrial gases, adhesives, coatings, synthetic rubber, consumer products, organic chemicals, plastic resins, pesticides, manmade fibers, and other specialties were offset by lower production of some inorganic chemicals, acids, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals.

Compared to December 2012, total chemical production in all regions was ahead by 1.4% on a year-over-year basis, following a 1.5% gain in November. Chemical production remained ahead in all regions compared to a year ago.