Cement consumption growth continues; PCA summer forecast revises 2006 growth targets
Although a slowdown of the U.S. economy is expected, experts predict cement consumption this year to reach 129.6 million tons, an increase of 2.3 percent compared to 2005 levels, extending a three-year period of continual growth. Additional growth is forecasted for 2007, with a 1.2 percent consumption increase.
"Higher interest rates, oil prices, and inflation will slow consumer spending," said Edward Sullivan, PCA chief economist. "These forces will result in a harsh decline in residential building and slow the recovery in nonresidential construction activity in 2006 and 2007."
Sullivan also expects slower job growth to contribute to a more cautious approach to public spending.
Additionally, the PCA summer forecast reports that the tight market conditions seen during the past two years have been dramatically reduced.
According to the association's most recent survey, only two states reported tight conditions compared to 30 states in 2004 and 2005. Large gains in imports in the first half of 2006 contributed significantly to the easing of supply issues.
"Higher interest rates, oil prices, and inflation will slow consumer spending," said Edward Sullivan, PCA chief economist. "These forces will result in a harsh decline in residential building and slow the recovery in nonresidential construction activity in 2006 and 2007."
Sullivan also expects slower job growth to contribute to a more cautious approach to public spending.
Additionally, the PCA summer forecast reports that the tight market conditions seen during the past two years have been dramatically reduced.
According to the association's most recent survey, only two states reported tight conditions compared to 30 states in 2004 and 2005. Large gains in imports in the first half of 2006 contributed significantly to the easing of supply issues.
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