Chemicals: The chemical industry is a cyclical business highly dependent on the changes of the global economy and reliant on the cost of basic commodities, especially oil and gas

The US Chemical manufacuring industry is growing and is supported by increasing demand from several key end-use markets such as appliances, computer and electronics, plastic and rubber products.

The demand from the Americal car manufacturing industry remains one of the most positive factors supporting the industry.

The industry growth is somewhat impaired by weak demand for chemicals from major foreign markets.

North American chemical manufacturers continue to benefit from the abundant supply and low prices of natural gas. The producers of ethylene-based plastics are the major beneficiaries of the natural gas windfall.