The August U.S. edition of The Monitor, a monthly analysis of trends in the construction and cement industries published by the Portland Cement Association, reports the positive momentum reverberating in the U.S. economy has begun to spill over into the manufacturing sector. This viewpoint is reinforced by the Institute for Supply Management Index which has shown a significant upturn since July.

U.S. labor markets remain weak and suggest to a cautionary stance towards a full-blown recovery. However, indicators such as the increasing reliance on temporary employees point to an impending growth in full-time employment opportunities. PCA’s summer forecast remains on track based on the Conference Board’s consumer confidence index, sustained consumer spending activity, a two-year high in business confidence and strong GDP growth.

Key statistics from the August U.S. edition of The Monitor:

• Portland cement consumption declined 1.1 percent in May, year-to-date consumption is down 2.1 percent.
• Blended cement consumption declined 33 percent in May and is -10 percent against year-ago levels.
• Masonry cement consumption declined 0.5 percent in May against last year’s level; year-to-date consumption continues off just under 1 percent.
• Cement and clinker imports were down 20 percent in April and continue to track down at by -17 percent on a year-to-date basis.

Reflecting on May 2003 data from several government-issued reports including the U.S. Geological Survey, The Monitor breaks down national economic trends, reports on cement consumption, and provides an in-depth analysis of construction activity for the residential, commercial, and public sectors.