The August U.S. edition of PCA's The Monitor reports that 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 shows a significant upturn since July.

U.S. labor markets remain weak, suggesting 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 Monitor include:

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