The JP Morgan Global Manufacturing purchasing manager’s index (PMI) rose 0.2 points in December 2013, to a level of 53.3. The gain is 12 consecutive monthly rise, and the highest level for the index in 32 months, according to the latest Weekly Chemistry and Economic Report from the American Chemistry Council (ACC; Washington, D.C.; www.americanchemistry.com).
“Output growth was again led by the G7 developed nations in December, as robust expansions in the U.S., Japan, Germany, the U.K. (which registered the highest Output PMI reading of all countries) and Italy offset the ongoing contraction in France and a sharp growth slowdown in Canada,” says the ACC report.
In other data discussed in the report, U.S. specialty chemical market volumes rose 0.8% in November 2013. This gain follows a 0.7% rise in October and a 0.2% decline in September of last year.
“The 2013 slowdown in manufacturing affected these business segments, but recovery in specialty chemicals appears to be broadening,” ACC says.
Of the 28 specialty chemical segments monitored by ACC, 24 expanded in November, while the remaining four experienced decline. Large (1.0% or greater) gains) were noted in 13 segments, ACC noted, including the following: adhesives and sealants; antioxidants; biocides; catalysts; coatings; cosmetic additives; electronic chemicals; flavors and fragrances; foundry chemicals; oilfield chemicals; paint additives; rubber processing chemicals; textile specialties.