Metalformers 'cautiously optimistic' about Q1'24: PMA

Roughly 13% expect an increase in economic activity, up from 9% in November. And 30% think business conditions will worsen, down from 42% in November, the group said.

“’Cautious optimism’ is how I would characterize PMA members’ outlook as we enter into the new year,” PMA president David Klotz said in a statement.

That cautious optimism persists despite continuing supply-chain problems, inflation, and a shortage of workers, he added.

One new concern: Nippon Steel’s deal for U.S. Steel, which Klotz said could result in “new challenges.”

“The purchase may mean more disruption in the domestic steel industry that could lead to higher steel prices in this country, which are already the highest in the world in part due to the Section 232 steel and aluminum tariffs,” Klotz said.

It was not immediately clear why the PMA the deal, announced on Monday, would lead to higher prices or production disruptions. Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel have announced no operational changes. And the deal does not result in increased consolidation of the domestic market – something some steel consumers had feared.

Klotz also called on the Biden administration to end Section 232.

Recall that the Trump administration implemented Section 232 tariffs – 25% on imported steel and 10% on imported aluminum – in 2018. The Biden administration has continued the measures. But it has significantly scaled Section 232 back when it comes to US allies such the European Union, Japan, and the United Kingdom.