Imports of Goods: General Merchandise: Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines

Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted

IEAMGAVA • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

475,525.00

Year-over-Year Change

59.31%

Date Range

1/1/1999 - 1/1/2024

Summary

The Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted series measures the capacity utilization rate for the U.S. manufacturing sector. This metric is a key indicator of overall economic activity and industrial productivity.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

Capacity utilization tracks the proportion of total manufacturing capacity that is actively being used. It provides insights into the efficiency and health of the manufacturing industry, which is a critical driver of economic growth.

Methodology

The data is collected through surveys of manufacturing facilities and calculated as a percentage of total potential output.

Historical Context

Capacity utilization data informs monetary and fiscal policy decisions by the Federal Reserve and other policymakers.

Key Facts

  • The current annual capacity utilization rate is around 78%.
  • Capacity utilization typically ranges between 75-85% during periods of economic expansion.
  • Low capacity utilization can signal underperforming industrial activity and economic slowdown.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted series measures the percentage of total manufacturing capacity that is actively being used in the U.S. economy.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: Capacity utilization is a key indicator of industrial productivity and overall economic health. It provides insights into supply-side constraints and the efficiency of the manufacturing sector.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The Federal Reserve collects this data through surveys of manufacturing facilities and calculates the capacity utilization rate as a percentage of total potential output.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Capacity utilization data informs monetary and fiscal policy decisions by the Federal Reserve and other policymakers, as it signals the degree of slack or tightness in the industrial economy.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted capacity utilization data is published with a lag, typically a few months after the end of the reference period. There may also be revisions to historical data over time.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Annual, Not Seasonally Adjusted (IEAMGAVA), retrieved from FRED.