• Although the United States registered a surplus in the chemicals sector in 1999, the U.S. trade surplus decreased to become a deficit in 2000 and the deficit has increased annually.

• The high price of natural gas, the major fuel source for the U.S. chemical industry, reduced the competitiveness of the industry in 2003.

• Ireland continues to be one of the most important locations for major pharmaceutical companies to manufacture their products.

• U.S. trade deficit: Increased by $6.4 billion (42 percent) to $21.6 billion

• U.S. exports: Increased by $10.6 billion (12 percent) to $102.3 billion

• U.S. imports: Increased by $17.0 billion (16 percent) to $123.9 billion

• Medicinal Chemicals exhibited the largest shift

USITC PUBLICATIONS

Industry Trade and Technology Review

Outsourcing by the Pharmaceutical Industry Provides Opportunities for Fine Chemical Producers Worldwide

Catalysts: An Innovative Industry Responds to Technological and Competitive Challenges

Industry and Trade Summary

Organic Commodity Chemicals

OTHER GOVERNMENT RESOURCES

U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration

Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, and Biotechnology Division