📉 U.S. Manufacturing Activity Contracts for Third Consecutive Month

The ISM Manufacturing Index fell to 48.5% in May, signaling continued contraction in the U.S. industrial sector.

🔍 What’s driving the slowdown?

Persistent economic uncertainty and a surge in new tariffs—particularly on steel, aluminum, and automobiles—are putting pressure on manufacturers. Since returning to the White House, Donald Trump has reinstated a protectionist agenda, including a proposal to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum to 50%.

🏭 As a result, companies are scaling back production plans, citing tariffs as a major disruptive factor.

The last uptick in manufacturing was back in February. Since then, it's been a steady decline.

📊 The ISM survey reflects the outlook of business leaders across industries, many of whom are struggling to adapt to the current trade environment.

📌 The critical question:

Are these measures protecting domestic industry—or hindering long-term economic growth?

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