US Manufacturing Growth Remains Solid in March

2026-04-01 13:59 By Joana Ferreira 1 min. read

The S&P Global US Manufacturing PMI held at 52.3 in March 2026, slightly below the preliminary estimate of 52.4 but up from 51.6 in February.

The reading signals solid expansion in the sector, driven by stronger output and new orders, particularly from domestic demand, as businesses stockpiled supplies and secured pricing amid the Middle East conflict.

However, international sales continued to decline, hampered by tariffs and shipping challenges.

Employment levels remained flat, while supplier delivery times worsened to the greatest extent in 3.5 years, reflecting war-related transportation disruptions and vendor stock shortages.

Cost pressures intensified, with input inflation reaching its highest level since August 2025 and output charges rising at the fastest pace in seven months.

Business confidence dipped slightly, as firms expressed concerns over rising energy prices and tariffs.



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