Business Economics

, Volume 48, Issue 2, pp 121–133 | Cite as

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges for U.S. Manufacturers

  • Chad Moutray
  • Kevin Swift
Focus on Industries and Markets

Abstract

Manufacturing has received increased attention in recent years, as it has enhanced its importance in the economy with output and employment gains and as a driving force of U.S. exports. Nonetheless, the sector faces serious challenges as well as opportunities. The challenges are weak global economic growth, burdensome taxes and regulation, and a labor force that is unprepared to meet twenty-first century needs. Opportunities, however, are likely to more than offset the challenges. These are an improving energy environment, an improved climate for international trade, strong productivity growth, and continued strength in innovation.

Keywords

manufacturing exports regulation labor energy productivity 

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Copyright information

© National Association for Business Economics 2013

Authors and Affiliations

  • Chad Moutray
  • Kevin Swift

There are no affiliations available

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