PCA expects cement consumption to slow in 2019

Sullivan

The Portland Cement Association (PCA) envisions strong to moderate growth for cement consumption through 2019 and into 2020.

In its annual spring forecast, PCA details why it expects cement consumption to grow by 2.3 percent in 2019. Compared to a fall 2018 forecast, the spring forecast represents a marginal slowing in the pace of growth.

“While there are several phenomenon that confront the economy in the next two years, PCA believes the economy is strong,” says Ed Sullivan, PCA senior vice president and chief economist. “As interest rates rise, they will steal some strength from economic growth. Private construction growth, being an interest rate sensitive sector, is expected to slow under the weight of higher interest rates. Cement consumption growth will slow as a result.”

In addition, rising state deficits have forced a number of states to adjust budgets, reduce costs and reprioritize spending.

“Absent a new near-term infrastructure program, public sector cement consumption is also expected to slow as transportation investment takes a back seat to high state spending priorities,” Sullivan says.

PCA’s analysis notes that the labor market remains strong. On a monthly basis, the economy has generated 235,000 net new jobs. While this pace is expected to ease in subsequent years, it is expected to generate more than 2 million jobs for the next two years.

“Overall, the pace of cement consumption growth is expected to soften each year through 2021,” Sullivan says. “In 2022, interest rates are expected to reach their apex and recede slightly. At about this time, the supplemental infrastructure initiative is expected to materialize. “